The regulations approved this week and set to go into effect on Monday open the window for potential casino operators to apply for licenses some 18 months after voters approved expanded gambling at the state's horse tracks.

Lancaster County had nearly 200 cases last week, the most in two months, but the number of COVID-19 patients in local hospitals has actually declined slightly.

Nearly three-fourths of the state is in severe drought or worse, including 22% in extreme drought. Lincoln will be in an area of slight risk for severe weather Friday.

The rate was 2.1% in February, down from 2.7% a year ago. The Lincoln area's rate also was 2.1% last month.

The Census Bureau released estimated population data for 2021, which showed that as of July 1, Lancaster County had added about 1,900 people since the 2020 Census.

Nearly three dozen counties are in a winter weather advisory starting at 1 a.m. Tuesday, with the National Weather Service forecasting up to 3 inches of snow.

Paul Pastelok of Accuweather said the spring outlook favors more tornadoes than usual in March and April.

A chunk of southeastern Nebraska, including extreme southern Lancaster County, is now in severe drought.

Weekly cases in Lancaster County have now declined nearly 98% since the omicron peak of 4,961 cases the week ending Jan. 14.

Hospitals have 70% fewer COVID-19 patients than they did a week ago but still remain full due to patients catching up on delayed care.