7-2 News - Elevated fire risk heading into Independence Day

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More sun than clouds today with a slight chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm.  Look for the high around 82, but by the weekend, we’ll be back to 90 degrees.

The National Weather Service has issued an elevated fire weather outlook for southern White Pine County and eastern Nye County today. From 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., south to southwest winds of around 15 miles per hour, with gusts up to 25 miles per hour, combined with humidity as low as 10 percent, could cause any new wildfire to spread rapidly. Officials say critically dry vegetation and gusty winds create dangerous fire conditions. Outdoor burning is not recommended, and residents are urged to avoid activities that could spark a wildfire and report any smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.

The numbers are in, and June was another hot, dry month across eastern Nevada. The National Weather Service says Ely recorded an average temperature of 64-point-6 degrees, more than 3 degrees above normal, tying June 2026 as the fifth warmest June on record. Just four-hundredths of an inch of rain fell during the month, well below the normal 0.56 inches. No snowfall was recorded, which is typical for June. Climate records for Ely date back to 1893.

A reminder that Friday is Independence Day, a federal holiday, and many government offices will be closed. Federal, state, county, and city offices, along with banks and post offices, will observe the holiday. There will be no regular mail delivery on Friday, and many public services will resume normal business hours on Monday. If you need to conduct banking or government business, plan ahead before the long holiday weekend. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July.

With Independence Day approaching and temperatures expected to climb into the 90s across the region, health officials are reminding residents to stay safe in the heat. Experts say staying properly hydrated is one of the most important ways to prevent heat-related illness during outdoor celebrations and travel. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day, avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors and children, who are especially vulnerable during extreme heat.

Firefighters continue to make steady progress on the Grapevine Fire burning south of Caliente in Lincoln County. The fire has now grown to 26,464 acres and is 72 percent contained. Crews are continuing mop-up operations to strengthen containment lines and extinguish remaining hot spots. Fire officials are reminding residents that elevated fire weather conditions are expected each afternoon through Sunday. With hot, dry, and breezy conditions in the forecast, any new fire start could spread rapidly. Everyone is urged to use extreme caution and practice good fire safety.

Ely and White Pine County are gearing up for a full slate of Fourth of July celebrations as the “Red, White Pine, and Blue Independence Day Festival” returns July 3rd through the 5th.

The four-day community celebration features more than 50 events across Ely, McGill, Ruth, and Cave Lake, including museum tours, live entertainment, art exhibits, and family activities.

Highlights include the annual downtown Ely Independence Day Parade at 11 a.m. on July 4th, a free community breakfast at the Bristlecone Convention Center, and the Chamber of Commerce “Red, White and Blue Blowout” at Broadbent Park.

The celebration wraps up Friday night with fireworks at the White Pine Golf Course at 9 p.m., along with additional events throughout the weekend, including train excursions, concerts, and community gatherings.

Organizers say the festival is designed to bring the entire county together for a weekend of patriotic celebration, history, and hometown pride.

Details are available online at elynevada dot net

Fire officials in White Pine County are reminding residents that fireworks are illegal throughout the county and on all Bureau of Land Management lands, especially as wildfire danger continues to climb across eastern Nevada.

Authorities say the dry conditions and windy weather greatly increase the risk of fast-moving fires sparked by fireworks or other open flames.

Instead of setting off personal fireworks, residents are encouraged to attend the official Independence Day fireworks show Saturday night at 9 p.m. at the White Pine Golf Course.

The display, presented by Great Basin Pyrotechnics, will provide a safe, professional celebration for the entire community.

Officials are urging everyone to help keep the holiday safe and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.

A Las Vegas-area woman accused of making terrorism-related threats is now facing a judge after an armed standoff at Sunset Station Casino.

Authorities say 36-year-old Allison Howlett was arrested after police located her in a parking garage with a vehicle reportedly loaded with firearms and ammunition. Investigators later recovered additional weapons at a Henderson home, totaling dozens of firearms along with suppressors and thousands of rounds of ammo.

Police say the investigation began after a domestic dispute call in which the suspect allegedly made threats of “suicide by cop” and a possible mass shooting. Federal and local agencies, including the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, assisted in the case.

A judge has set bail at $500,000, and Howlett is due back in court later this month.

Nevada has a brand-new state park near Carson City—and state leaders are asking the public to help name it.

Governor Joe Lombardo and the Nevada Division of State Parks announced the addition of “State Park Number 28,” a 1,627-acre site along the Carson River corridor just east of Dayton. The property protects about four and a half miles of riverfront land that had been in private ownership for more than 150 years.

Officials say the land preserves cultural resources dating back to the late 1800s and includes portions of the historic California and Pony Express trails. During the 1940s, part of the property also operated as a so-called divorce ranch, reflecting a unique chapter of Nevada history.

Name suggestions will be accepted starting July 1 through July 15, with public voting on finalists set for August 1 through the 14th. The official name will be announced at a dedication ceremony this fall.

That’s your morning news from the state of Nevada

7-1 News - One Arrest on Monday Police blotter

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More sun than clouds today with a slight chance of an afternoon or evening thunderstorm.  Look for the high around 81, but by the weekend, we’ll be back to 90 degrees.

The White Pine County Sheriff's Office responded to a variety of calls on Monday. Deputies investigated two reported thefts, including a stolen package from a county residence and a shoplifting incident at a local convenience store that remains under investigation.

Deputies also arrested 38-year-old Brandlynn Stotler of Ely following a reported domestic disturbance. Stotler was booked on charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, with bail set at $10,000.

Other calls included a welfare check on a motorist found slumped over a steering wheel, who was determined to be okay, reports of juveniles riding dirt bikes on city streets, a civil dispute over unpaid vehicle repairs, and a disabled electric vehicle and reckless driver, both of which were referred to the Nevada State Police.

The Parsnip Peak Fire in Lincoln County has grown to 2,265 acres and is now 15 percent contained. Three hotshot crews, an initial attack crew, and eight helicopters are battling the blaze in rugged terrain where fire engines can't reach, making air support essential. Meanwhile, containment on the nearby Grapevine Fire has increased to 55 percent. Fire officials say eastern Nevada remains at an above-normal risk for large wildfires as both Nevada and the nation are now at Preparedness Level 4 due to heavy fire activity and high demand for firefighting resources.

Several new Nevada laws take effect today, including changes that could affect schools across the state. School districts can now hire licensed teachers from other states for up to a year while they complete Nevada licensing, a move aimed at easing the teacher shortage. Students will also have more opportunities to attend public schools outside their attendance zone if space is available. In classrooms, updated rules expand restrictions on cell phones and other electronic devices, with progressive discipline for repeat violations. Other new laws affecting larger urban counties will have little impact on rural communities like White Pine County.

The White Pine County Sheriff’s Office will be joining agencies across Nevada for a Joining Forces Speed Awareness Campaign running July 1st through July 20th, 2026. Officials say the effort will focus on reducing speeding-related crashes through highly visible patrols and public education. Law enforcement warns speeding remains one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities statewide and includes driving too fast for road and weather conditions. The campaign emphasizes that speeding increases stopping distance, crash severity, and the risk of losing control. Officials say the goal is zero roadway fatalities through awareness, education, and enforcement.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that states may bar transgender athletes from competing on girls' sports teams, a decision expected to influence future policy debates across the country. Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo welcomed the ruling, saying it allows lawmakers to pursue what he called a permanent, common-sense solution during the 2027 legislative session. LGBTQ+ advocacy group Silver State Equality criticized the decision, arguing it unfairly targets transgender youth and urging Nevada to instead adopt policies protecting their participation in school sports.

Republican leaders are quickly unifying behind 2nd Congressional District nominee David Flippo following his primary victory. Mini Racker in the Nevada Independent writes that several prominent Republicans who had backed former state Sen. James Settelmeyer, including Senate Minority Leader Robin Titus of Wellington, have now joined Flippo's campaign, saying party unity is essential ahead of November. Titus says she's encouraging Flippo to spend time in rural Nevada to better understand the region's needs. Flippo has recently campaigned in Northern Nevada.   Governor Joe Lombardo and Congressman Mark Amodei have not yet publicly endorsed his campaign.

That’s your morning news from the state of Nevada

6-30 News - a reminder to Stay Hydrated

 KELY News sponsored by Sahara Motors.   The Kawasaki KX450 is built out of the box with everything you need to dominate the track. Check it out today at Sahara Motors and let the Good Times Roll. 

Clouds this morning will give way to afternoon sunshine, we’ll see a nice day today with the high around 78, but by the weekend, we’ll be back to 90 degrees.

With Independence Day approaching and temperatures expected to climb into the 90s across the region, health officials are reminding residents to stay safe in the heat. Experts say staying properly hydrated is one of the most important ways to prevent heat-related illness during outdoor celebrations and travel. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day, avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors and children, who are especially vulnerable during extreme heat.

If you’re wondering why your clocks are blinking this morning, an early morning car crash took out a pole and killed the power to portions of Ely around 2:30 this morning.  Most areas should see service restored thanks to the quick actions of Mount Wheeler linemen. 

The White Pine County Sheriff's Office handled several calls on Sunday, June 28th. Deputies investigated reports of suspicious activity outside a local business, a disturbance at a healthcare facility, and a trespassing complaint at a local motel where a subject was removed at management's request. Deputies also investigated the death of Ely resident Thyla Albertson, determining the death was from natural causes. Other incidents included reports of threats, a disabled vehicle initially reported as suspicious, while a reckless driver complaint and a motorist assist were referred to the Nevada State Police.

Fire crews continue battling several large wildfires in eastern Nevada. The Parsnip Peak Fire, burning 18 miles northwest of Pioche, has grown to 2,500 acres and remains zero percent contained. The Dry Canyon Fire east of Pioche is now 1,705 acres and 10 percent contained. Near Caliente, the Kane Springs Fire has burned more than 17,000 acres and is now 75 percent contained. Fire officials say critically dry vegetation, rugged terrain, and windy conditions continue to fuel aggressive fire behavior. The Grapevine Fire has reached 41 percent containment as crews prepare to begin suppression repair efforts.

The Elko Police Department’s Crime Suppression Unit has wrapped up a months-long investigation into a narcotics trafficking ring, arresting three individuals who were flooding the Elko community with dangerous drugs.

Since October 2025, detectives tracked a network smuggling substances from across Nevada and California into Elko. The result? The seizure of over five pounds of illegal narcotics, including 3.3 pounds of meth and two pounds of fentanyl. That fentanyl alone is estimated to be worth $272,000 and contains enough material for more than 450,000 potentially lethal doses.

Police also recovered four firearms, including an AR-15 and an AK-47, some of which were reported stolen. The Elko PD credits their Canine Unit, specifically K9s Rudy and Balu, as instrumental to the bust.

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld Nevada’s mail-in ballot “grace period,” allowing ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted if they arrive up to four days later. The 5–4 decision keeps Nevada’s current system in place ahead of the 2026 general election. Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar said he was surprised by the ruling but noted his office had prepared contingency plans. The Republican National Committee challenged the law, arguing it violated federal election standards, but the court ruled nothing requires ballots to be received by Election Day.

Nevada school superintendents are calling for the repeal of the state’s “Read by Grade 3” retention policy, which would require struggling third graders to be held back starting in 2028. The group argues retention can increase dropout risk and say Nevada lacks stable funding for literacy interventions. State data shows fewer than half of third graders are reading at grade level, though scores are improving. Supporters, including Governor Joe Lombardo’s office, say reading proficiency is a key predictor of success and the focus should be on early intervention and clear standards rather than repeal.

The Reno Rodeo is reviewing how animals are identified during competition after concerns were raised over the name of a bull announced in the arena. Bull number 14, originally named "Nick Gertz," drew online criticism because some listeners said it sounded like a racial slur when read aloud. Rodeo officials say the names are assigned by stock contractors, not the Reno Rodeo, and they do not believe the name was intended to be offensive. The stock contractor, Big Bend Rodeo, has since renamed the bull "Nick" and apologized to anyone who was offended.

6-29 News - Great Basin fires move region to Preparedness Level Four

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After dragging out the jackets for a cool Monday Morning, we’ll see a nice day today with the high around 74, but by the weekend, we’ll be back to 90 degrees.

Wildfire activity remains high in Lincoln County as firefighters battle three major fires and the Great Basin has been elevated to Preparedness Level Four, reflecting heavy demand for firefighting resources nationwide.

The Parsnip Peak Fire near Pioche has grown to more than 3,000 acres with no containment. The Dry Canyon Fire is now estimated at 1,705 acres and is 10 percent contained, while the Kane Springs Fire near Caliente has reached 75 percent containment at just over 17,000 acres. Fire officials say hot, dry and windy conditions continue to increase the risk of rapid fire growth across the region.

Firefighters have made progress on the Grapevine Fire burning south of Caliente. The fire is now estimated at 26,460 acres and is 6 percent contained.

Fire officials say milder fire behavior allowed crews to establish containment along the southwest edge of the fire. On Monday, firefighters will strengthen those control lines while hotshot crews are deployed into the rugged southeast portion of the fire to expand suppression efforts.

White Pine County Commissioners will hold a special meeting this afternoon at 1 to conduct a public hearing and consider approval of a budget augmentation for Fiscal Year 2026. The proposed resolution would appropriate funds from the county's Emergency Medical Services Fund for payment to the White Pine County Fire District.

The White Pine County Sheriff's Office responded to dozens of calls between June 23rd and 27th, ranging from welfare checks and domestic disturbances to thefts, fraud and suspicious activity.

Deputies made seven arrests during the week, including a Washington man wanted on an out-of-state warrant, two drivers arrested on DUI charges, and several people taken into custody on local warrants and other offenses.

Investigators are also actively working several cases, including reports of suspected drug sales, a bicycle theft, a reported sex crime, a battery at a local motel and package theft. Deputies also responded to a semi-truck fire, a brush fire, multiple accidents and numerous juvenile and animal-related calls across White Pine County.

A Nevada prison healthcare crisis is drawing renewed scrutiny as lawsuits and staffing shortages continue to mount — with Ely State Prison part of a system advocates say is struggling to meet basic medical needs.

One inmate, serving a life sentence, is now suing the Nevada Department of Corrections, alleging years of delayed treatment and failed prescriptions. A federal judge has already approved a court-appointed attorney, saying the case may have merit under the Eighth Amendment.

Kate Reynolds at the Nevada Independent writes this morning how at Ely State Prison and other facilities, officials acknowledge ongoing staffing shortages, leading to delays in care and more outside hospital trips. Lawmakers have approved millions in temporary funding and overtime costs, but critics say the system remains overstretched, with rising medical complaints and preventable health risks behind bars.

6-26 News - Ely City Council votes to accept NNRY trackage agreement

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A windy weekend in store with a Red Flag Warning posted today and a Fire Weather Watch posted tomorrow.  Wind gusts in excess of 40 to 50 miles per hour today and tomorrow.  Cooler weather is ahead.  Look for today’s high around 85, cooling to 66 by Sunday. 

The Ely City Council voted to approve a trackage rights agreement involving the Nevada Northern Railway and the Great Basin & Northern Railway in an attempt to secure federal funding for the rehabilitation of the line from Ely to Cobre.  The agreement saw some pushback from citizens as ongoing criticism of the Nevada Northern Railway management board not complying with Nevada Open Meeting Law despite the affiliation with the City of Ely.  The City also accepted a Community Development Block Grant of more than $603,000 to help fund upgrades to Ely's wastewater treatment plant.

The Council issued a proclamation recognizing Ely an International Mountain Bicycling Association Trail Town, honored retiring White Pine School Superintendent Adam Young for 24 years of service, and approved a new liquor license for Hometown Pizza.

White Pine County Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Monday afternoon at 1 to conduct a public hearing and consider approval of a budget augmentation for Fiscal Year 2026. The proposed resolution would appropriate funds from the county's Emergency Medical Services Fund for payment to the White Pine County Fire District.

Fire crews continue battling two large wildfires south of Caliente in Lincoln County. The Grapevine Fire has grown to more than 23,000 acres and remains zero percent contained as firefighters work in steep terrain within the Clover Mountain Wilderness Area. Active fire behavior continues on the fire's eastern flank.

Meanwhile, the Kane Springs Fire is now 50 percent contained at just over 17,000 acres, with crews making steady progress securing fire lines and extinguishing hotspots.

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through Saturday, bringing strong winds, low humidity, and critical fire conditions. Beaver Dam State Park remains closed until further notice due to the Grapevine Fire.

Nevada drivers are getting a break at the pump. AAA Nevada reports gas prices have fallen for the fifth straight week, with the statewide average dropping 13 cents over the past week to $4.71 per gallon.

AAA says lower crude oil prices are helping drive the decline as the U.S. and Iran work toward a long-term agreement. The average price is now $4.98 per gallon in Reno and $4.70 in Las Vegas.  The average price in White Pine County is $4.13 per gallon, second lowest only to Lander County at $3.97 per gallon. 

Despite the lower prices, AAA expects heavy holiday travel, with a record number of Americans expected to hit the road for the Independence Day weekend.

An inmate at Ely State Prison has died. The Nevada Department of Corrections says 24-year-old Otis Bishop died Wednesday at University Medical Center in Las Vegas. Bishop was serving a sentence of four to 15 years for attempted lewdness with a child under 14 and had been in state custody since September.

Corrections officials also reported the deaths of two other inmates this week at facilities in Southern Nevada. Causes of death have not been released, and autopsies have been requested in all three cases.