Thursday March 19 2026 - Scanner News

Fire crews are not only out there in the wild, fighting fires, but they are also responding to local calls. Shortly before 1pm on March 16th, Scottsbluff Fire was dispatched to a possible structure fire in the 1300 block of East Overland. Engine 1 arrived on scene about 4 minutes after the initial page and observed a shed on fire next to a vacant trailer. Damages are estimated to be around $15,000 and no one was displaced as a result of the fire.

 

 

Dangerous fire conditions continue today through Saturday.  A red flag warning is in effect Thursday for much of the Panhandle where critical fire weather conditions are expected. Afternoon highs in the upper 70s to mid 80s, humidity dropping near 10% and breezy west winds will create an environment where fires can easily start and spread. Avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with any potential ignition sources.

 

 

We're only into this 4 day stretch of record breaking warmth with new records already being set across the area. Scottsbluff hit a high of 83 yesterday to tie their 2017 record and Sidney broke their 2017 record of 79 degrees by hitting 81 yesterday.

 

 

Let's hope that our local Dairy Queen honors this. We are told it is free cone day. Today March 19th. Visit Dairy Queen Grill and Chill today to get your free cone. If it's true, tell them the scanner sent you. If it's not true, blame it on the internet.

 

 

According to other local news services circulating reports around the state, the Cottonwood Fire is at 78% containment and the Morrill Fire is now at 67% containment.