Lightning strike sparks wildfire near Ainsworth

Firefighters and an airplane worked to contain a wildfire in rugged terrain about 12 miles northwest of Ainsworth on Wednesday, with officials believing the fire was caused by a lightning strike earlier in the week.

July 30, 2026Updated: July 30, 2026
By Casey Wonnenberg

Regional

No serious injuries reported in two-vehicle accident 

A pickup truck towing a camper and a four-door sedan collided at the intersection of 18th Avenue and Osage Street at about 4:15 Monday.

6 Regions 1 Nebraska: housing issue not one person’s problem 

Instead of the chicken and the egg, community leaders are debating what comes first, housing or jobs. The Western Housing Roadshow visited three communities facilitating that discussion, and how to move forward.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch continues for Panhandle counties

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo., has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 11 p.m. tonight for Panhandle, Neb. counties.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued for Panhandle counties

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 6 p.m. for parts of Cherry, Grant, Garden and Sheridan counties.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued for Southeastern Cheyenne County

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo., has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Cheyenne County including Sidney.

National Weather Service issues Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Morrill County

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo., has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Morrill County including Broadwater until 4:45 p.m.