High Wind Watch, Fire Weather Watch issued for region as winter weather looms

High Wind and Fire Weather Watches issued for the Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming and northeast Colorado.

February 16, 2026Updated: February 16, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Wildfire south of Atkinson forces highway closure

Wildfire south of Atkinson forces highway closure

Norfolk Fire assists with cornfield blaze near Highway 81

Norfolk Fire assists with cornfield blaze near Highway 81

Tragedy 21 years ago is still making a difference today

Tragedy 21 years ago is still making a difference today

Fire re-sparks under high winds in Knox County

Fire re-sparks under high winds in Knox County

State

Crookston woman sentenced to 20–30 years in foster child’s death

Atkinson fire contained after forcing highway closure, evacuation notice

WNCC splits conference games with McCook

Amazon celebrates 2nd anniversary in Grand Island , 5 million packages delivered

Grass fire results in evacuation

Wildfire south of Atkinson forces highway closure

Sports

Mayor recognizes wrestling champion

Doane wrestler Cristelle Rodriguez captures NAIA and U.S. championships

WNCC softball team splits contests with Lamar on Sunday

Lowery, Akins lead Chadron State College to win

Colorado sports notes: Forward Logan O'Connor caps long comeback with a Game 1 goal to help Avalanche hold off Kings 2-1

WNCC softball splits conference games with Lamar

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Spring shotgun turkey season opens

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