Winds are back and so are the fires
Fire crews continue to battle multiple grass fires across the northern Nebraska Panhandle following a round of thunderstorms that moved through the region Wednesday night.
Several new fire starts were reported, with dry lightning believed to be the primary cause.
The largest fire is located in west central Sioux County, estimated at around 1,500 acres. That fire is burning near Henry Road, roughly 20 miles southwest of Harrison, in an area north of Carpenter Ranch.
In neighboring Dawes County, two additional fires are active south of Chadron.
The Ash Pole Fire is the larger of the two, currently estimated at about 150 acres, while the Grizzly Bear Fire is reported at approximately 30 acres.
Local officials say fire activity picked up quickly following the storms, with multiple ignitions reported across the region.
According to the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department, crews responded to “multiple new fire starts” south of Chadron, stretching from Table Road west toward Ash Creek. Firefighters from several departments are on scene, working alongside federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and Nebraska Game and Parks.
Local ranchers and farmers are also assisting in suppression efforts as crews work to contain the fires.
Conditions remain a concern.
Red Flag Warnings are in effect through Friday evening as dry fuels, warm temperatures, and gusty winds continue to create an environment favorable for fire growth.
Officials are urging residents and producers in the area to remain alert, as additional fire starts remain possible under the current weather pattern.