Post Fire Afternoon Update, 9/17
RELEASE DATE: Oct 21, 2021
Fire managers are continuing to guide the response to a large fire southwest of Crawford. Local, state and federal resources are working together to combat dry weather conditions, high wind challenges, as well as an anticipated red flag warning reported for tomorrow.
Additional air assets have been ordered to assist with suppression efforts beginning tomorrow morning.
“Air support has dropped retardant to stop the spread of the fires. Several flights, or sorties, have been flown by single engine air tankers (SEATs) from bases operated by the Nebraska Forest Service out of Scottsbluff and Chadron,” said Ben Bohall with the Nebraska Forest Service.
Local law enforcement is doing pre-evacuation warnings from 4 Mile Road, north to Paddock Street in Crawford. Emergency plans are in place to assist with evacuations if necessary.
Burnout operations were successful for ground crews, a suppression tactic used to stop fire spread. Resources from across the state are scheduled to provide assistance throughout the next two operational periods.
Please take extra caution when traveling on Highway 20, between Crawford and Fort Robinson. Limited visibility, as well as increased fire engine traffic should be expected.