Strong winds cause major damage in Spencer, Nebraska

National Weather Service preliminary storm reports show that a roof has been partially blown off a gas station. The coffee shop in town, Open Gate Coffee House, also posted on Facebook that it’s closing until further notice due to building damages.

May 17, 2026Updated: May 17, 2026
By Casey Wonnenberg

Regional

Gordon city council declines fireworks ban amid elevated fire risk

Despite ongoing concerns about wildfire risk, fireworks will be allowed within Gordon city limits this Independence Day after the city council did not approve a temporary ban.

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Allen woman charged after allegedly driving into Merriman business

A 30-year-old Allen woman is facing multiple charges after authorities say she drove a pickup into a Merriman business.

Man sentenced to life in Winner killing, later commuted by Governor Noem, now charged in 14-year-old’s death

A 51-year-old Sioux Falls man who was sentenced to life in prison for a 1994 killing in Winner is now facing federal charges in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl.