North Platte, NE – Critical fire weather conditions Sunday are elevating wildfire danger near I-80 and US-83 corridors.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from noon to 6 p.m. CST Sunday for all of western and north central Nebraska, including communities along Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 83 and U.S. Highway 20.
Forecasters say southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph, will combine with relative humidity as low as 13 percent and afternoon temperatures approaching 70 degrees. The combination of warm temperatures, dry air and gusty winds is expected to create critical fire weather conditions.
The warning includes areas near North Platte, Valentine, Ogallala, Broken Bow and surrounding rural regions, including the Nebraska National Forest and the Sandhills. Fire Weather Zones 204, 206, 208, 209, 210 and 219 are impacted.
The National Weather Service warns that any fire that starts may spread rapidly under these conditions. Lightning is not expected, but officials caution that human-caused ignitions — such as equipment sparks, roadside debris burns or agricultural activity — pose a significant risk.
Travelers along I-80, US-83 and NE-2 may notice increased crosswinds during the afternoon hours. Dry roadside grasses could ignite quickly if exposed to sparks or heat sources.
A Red Flag Warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or will begin shortly. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and to secure trailer chains and equipment that could create sparks.
The elevated risk may particularly affect rural communities, agricultural operations and highway corridors during peak afternoon travel hours.
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