North Platte, Nebraska – Near-record warmth, dry air and gusty southwest winds will create critical fire weather conditions across western and north central Nebraska Sunday afternoon.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon CST (11 a.m. MST) to 6 p.m. CST (5 p.m. MST) Sunday for all of western and north central Nebraska, including the Eastern Panhandle, Sandhills, Niobrara Valley, Frenchman Basin and Loess Plains. High temperatures are expected to reach 69 degrees, close to daily records in some communities.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph will combine with relative humidity as low as 13 percent. That combination can cause any spark to spread rapidly through dry grasses and dormant vegetation. Lightning is not expected, meaning most fires would likely be human-caused.
Communities including Valentine, Alliance, Ogallala, North Platte and Broken Bow are under the warning. Areas near the Nebraska National Forest, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge and Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge are especially vulnerable due to open rangeland fuels.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and delay activities such as welding or using equipment that can throw sparks. Do not park vehicles on dry grass, secure trailer chains, and properly dispose of cigarettes. According to local fire officials, even small roadside ignitions can spread quickly under these conditions.
Drivers along U.S. Highway 83, U.S. 20 and Interstate 80 should remain alert for smoke or sudden visibility reductions if a fire develops. Report smoke immediately to local authorities.
