Wildfires spark in six Nebraska counties, prompting evacuation of village
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — As crews in Cass County work to wrap up a fire near Lake Waconda, several more wildfires were reported around Nebraska on Tuesday.
The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency says six counties were struck by fires. Fire departments in Cherry, Garfield, Jefferson, Lincoln, Rock and Wheeler counties worked to battle the blazes.
In Cherry County, residents in the village of Kilgore were ordered to evacuate Tuesday afternoon. The evacuation order, prompted by a large grass fire in the area, was later lifted.
Emergency declarations have been made in Cherry and Garfield counties, both of which were authorized by Gov. Jim Pillen. Both counties have requested that the state use planes to drop water and flame retardant on the fires.
State officials say optimal conditions for fires, such as low humidity and gusty winds, will persist into Wednesday.
Any fires that pop up could be rapid and difficult to contain.
Officials urge people to avoid outdoor burns and to be aware of anything that could generate sparks.
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