Firefighting crews remain actively engaged across Nebraska as four major wildfires that ignited last week continue to burn, with containment efforts gradually improving in some areas.
Morrill Fire
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Started: March 12, sparked by a downed power pole
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Counties impacted: Morrill, Garden, Grant, Arthur, Keith
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Acres burned: 572,804
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Containment: 18%
The largest of the fires, the Morrill Fire, continues to challenge crews. Aerial resources, including Blackhawk helicopters, are assisting with operations, focusing on hot spots and mop-up efforts.
Cottonwood Fire
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Started: March 12 near Cottonwood Road and South Government Pocket Road
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Counties impacted: Dawson, Lincoln, Frontier
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Acres burned: 131,259
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Containment: 40%
The fire saw a slight increase in acreage Monday. Evacuation orders near Jeffrey Reservoir remain in place, while crews continue targeting hot spots and containment lines.
Road 203 Fire
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Started: March 12 after a prescribed burn escaped control at Halsey National Forest
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Counties impacted: Blaine, Logan, Thomas, Custer
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Acres burned: 35,814
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Containment: 36%
Containment has improved significantly from 0% to 36%. Crews are using drones to locate hot spots, helping reduce risks to firefighters while improving response efficiency.
Anderson Bridge Fire
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Started: March 12 near Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest
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County impacted: Cherry County
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Acres burned: 17,400
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Containment: 60%
This fire is the most contained of the four. However, the national forest remains closed to the public for safety reasons.
Ongoing response
Fire crews continue working across all impacted regions, using both ground and aerial strategies to contain the fires and prevent further spread. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders and safety guidance as conditions evolve.
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