Gov. Jim Pillen requests federal disaster declaration after wildfires burn 821,000 acres

The request would help cover nearly $9.7 million in damages to roads, bridges and power infrastructure across five Nebraska counties

May 8, 2026Updated: May 8, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Gov. Jim Pillen requests federal disaster declaration after wildfires burn 821,000 acres

Gov. Jim Pillen requests federal disaster declaration after wildfires burn 821,000 acres

Regional

State of Nebraska approves emergency declarations for nine counties affected by May's severe storms

Help is on the way for areas of Nebraska that were adversely affected by strong bouts of severe weather last month.

Man reported missing found dead after motorcycle crash near Osmond

Man reported missing found dead after motorcycle crash near Osmond

Independent Candidate Austin Ahlman rejects 'Spoiler' label in Norfolk town hall

Independent Candidate Austin Ahlman rejects 'Spoiler' label in Norfolk town hall

Dan Osborn submits signatures to qualify for Nebraska Senate ballot

Dan Osborn submits signatures to qualify for Nebraska Senate ballot

State

NRD reports watershed success after heavy rains

State of Nebraska approves emergency declarations for nine counties affected by May's severe storms

Comedian Matt Walsh to perform at Great American Comedy Festival in Norfolk

South Fork Fire near Crawford 55% contained; crews establish line around entire perimeter

Nebraska Attorney General among 14 urging EPA to classify mifepristone as water contaminant

Additional arrest made in Box Butte County homicide investigation after Sheridan County search warrant

Sports

Milford volleyball star Shayla Rautenberg commits to Nebraska

WNCC names Shayane Poirot has women’s basketball coach

Red stifles White for All-Star Classic win

UNK extends women's basketball coach Drew Johnson through 2029

Gary Sánchez hits first homer since April 14, Brewers complete sweep of Rockies with 12-4 win

Brewers score 8 late runs, stun Rockies 9-7 in wild 10-inning victory

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April

NGPC still offers grazing, haying opportunities

Outdoor notes: Campers invited to take state park survey