Omaha, NE – A Fire Weather Watch has been issued across much of Nebraska for Friday afternoon and evening as strong winds and low humidity create conditions favorable for wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service, winds will reach 20 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph. Relative humidity levels will drop as low as 17 percent, increasing the likelihood of rapid fire spread. The affected areas include Valley, Greeley, Nance, Sherman, Howard, Merrick, Polk, Dawson, Buffalo, Hall, Hamilton, York, Kearney, Adams, Clay, Fillmore, Nuckolls, and Thayer counties in central Nebraska. Additionally, Knox, Cedar, Antelope, Pierce, Wayne, Boone, Madison, Stanton, Cuming, Platte, Colfax, Butler, Seward, Saline, Jefferson, and Gage counties are under the alert in northeast Nebraska.
Further west, the Sandhills region, including the Nebraska National Forest, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, and Loup Rivers Basin, will also be impacted. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 61 degrees, adding to the fire risk.
Authorities strongly advise against outdoor burning and urge residents to stay alert for possible Red Flag Warnings. Any fire that ignites will spread rapidly under these conditions, making containment difficult.
Residents should monitor local forecasts and follow fire safety precautions as conditions evolve.
