Nebraska wildfire fight drags into day 7 as winds ease, but danger still looms

Firefighters are battling huge wildfires in western and central Nebraska, as driving winds and dry grass keep the danger high

March 18, 2026Updated: March 18, 2026

By MARGERY A. BECK

Regional

Younes shares vision for Kearney's Good Life District

Younes shares vision for Kearney's Good Life District

Flatwater Forum brings live journalism discussions to Kearney

Flatwater Forum brings live journalism discussions to Kearney

Spring Expo returns to Sidney with big prizes, family fun and regional turnout this weekend

Spring Expo returns to Sidney with big prizes, family fun and regional turnout

Skills USA Nebraska Continues with Heavy Machinery Events in Hastings

Skills USA Nebraska Continues with Heavy Machinery Events in Hastings

Skills USA Championships brings thousands to Grand Island

Skills USA Championships brings thousands to Grand Island

Developer feels shoved out of Grand Island good life district, seeks state intervention

Developer feels shoved out of Grand Island good life district, seeks state intervention

State

Workers at major Colorado meatpacking plan win wage increases in deal with JBS USA

Cause of Logan County grass fire under investigation

Potter resident wins $5,000 grand prize at Spring Expo in Sidney

Chadron High students showcase artwork at CSC

Engineering Explorers program encourages excitement for engineering and excellence in education

Flatwater Forum brings live journalism discussions to Kearney

Sports

Eagles Wrap Up Series With Orediggers

Colorado sports notes: Padres top Rockies 7-2 for 4-game sweep but Nick Pivetta exits with stiff elbow

Russell slams three home runs, WNCC splits with Otero

Eagles Notes: Chadron State Distance Runners Compete at Kit Mayer Classic

Colorado sports notes: Avs coach Jared Bednar taken to hospital after being hit in his face with a puck

Norfolk freshman flirts with no-hitter as Panthers get 4th win

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Bighorn sheep regular lottery applications begin April 20

Outdoor notes: NGPC offering pastures, hay tracts to those affected by wildfires

Outdoor notes: Work to begin soon on Smith Lake WMA Aquatic Habitat Project

Outdoor notes: Game and Parks urges caution when recreating outdoors due to wildfires

Outdoor notes: Temporary closure of Clear Creek WMA for safety

‘Worst-case scenario’: Fertilizer, fuel cost spikes hitting Nebraska farmers hard