Plum Creek wildfire now 70% contained, officials say

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – North-central Nebraska authorities provided an update on Friday regarding the Plum Creek wildfire.

According to Ainsworth Fire Chief Brad Fiala, improved weather conditions and outside resources allowed for substantial progress on Thursday.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska Game and Parks one of 60 local, state and federal agencies responding to Plum Creek fire

The fire has consumed 7,025 acres, but Fiala said the fire was mainly under control and is considered 70% contained.

“Unexpected winds could still cause an issue, but it is under control right now,” Fiala said. “Sunday is the worry for us now.”

Warmer temperatures and strong winds are expected to return to the area Sunday.

Fiala said many of the outside resources would be departing the area today and any additional efforts needed would be handled by local resources.

The Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopters will still make drops today on interior hot spots, and the hand crew headed out this morning to look at a few spots of concern before departing for Norfolk.

“We are trying to work hot spots and smoldering areas now,” Fiala said. “You are still going to see smoke in there for the next couple weeks.”

Fiala encouraged landowners to help the local volunteer fire departments monitor the area.

“If landowners can help us mitigate issues on their land, that would help us going forward,” Fiala said. “But, they can always call us too.”

With the one cabin and 45 head of cattle previously reported as lost to the fire, Fiala said firefighters have been able to save the houses in the area and other structures.

He said a few people lost their deer stands.