North Platte, NE – A Red Flag Warning is in effect across parts of western Nebraska today, prompting urgent fire safety precautions amid heightened wildfire risks.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, the alert began at 11 a.m. MDT Tuesday and remains active through 7 p.m. MDT. The warning covers the Eastern Panhandle, Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and Frenchman Basin, where conditions are especially volatile due to strong winds and low relative humidity.
Northwest winds are expected to reach 15 to 25 mph, with gusts topping 35 mph in the Sandhills region. In the Frenchman Basin, winds may peak near 30 mph. Relative humidity will drop as low as 15%, and temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 70s.
No lightning is expected, but officials warn that any fire starts could spread rapidly and become difficult to control. The National Weather Service emphasizes that this combination of warm temperatures, dry air, and gusty winds creates ideal conditions for extreme fire behavior.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and to secure any equipment that might emit sparks. Stay tuned to local alerts and report any signs of fire immediately to authorities.
