Omaha, Nebraska – Fires could spread out of control within minutes starting at noon Tuesday as southwest winds strengthen and humidity drops to 18 percent across eastern and central Nebraska.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from noon to 8 p.m. CST Tuesday for 17 counties, including Lancaster, Gage, Jefferson, Saline, Seward, Madison, Platte, and Richardson counties. Southwest winds will increase to 20 to 25 mph with gusts reaching 40 mph during peak afternoon heating.
The combination of dry air, warm temperatures, and strong winds creates conditions where any spark could ignite fast-moving grassfires. Open fields and cured winter vegetation across southeast Nebraska are especially vulnerable.
Communities including Lincoln, Beatrice, Columbus, Norfolk, and Falls City face elevated fire danger during the late afternoon and early evening hours. Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning, and residents should avoid activities that could produce sparks, including welding or dragging chains.
Fire crews remain on alert through 8 p.m., when winds are expected to weaken and humidity slowly recovers after sunset. Additional fire weather alerts could follow if dry conditions persist midweek.
