"Largest fire in Nebraska history": Morrill Fire grows to nearly 549,000 acres across western Nebraska

Crews from more than 30 departments are battling the fire as Blackhawk helicopters and National Guard crews assist. One death has been confirmed.

March 15, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Hospitals warn Nebraska Medicaid work rules could strain staffing and disrupt care

Already under financial pressure, Midwest soybean farmers are squeezed further by tariffs, Iran war

Social media video leads to federal firearm charge in Omaha

Murdock man loses nearly $160,000 in 7-year extortion scam

Tulip festival back for second year at Nelson Produce Farm

Younes shares vision for Kearney's Good Life District

State

Terence Crawford fined $75 for careless driving after stop where police ordered him out at gunpoint

Ainsworth NRCS field office currently without permanent staff

Alexis Forney, Lexi Johnson and Lucia Mendez earn Nebraska Broadcasters Association EEO Scholarships

Hospitals warn Nebraska Medicaid work rules could strain staffing and disrupt care

Cheyenne County reminds taxpayers of April 30 deadline, urges early mailing amid USPS changes

Sports

Kimball Junior High Track begins track season, setting personal records

Cougar notes: WNCC baseball sweeps Otero on Sunday

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

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