Scottsbluff, Nebraska – Fire danger is intensifying rapidly across eastern Wyoming and western to north-central Nebraska this morning, with conditions expected to become critical by mid-morning as strong winds and extremely dry air overlap during peak heating.
According to the National Weather Service offices in North Platte and Cheyenne, Red Flag Warnings remain in effect through late afternoon for the Nebraska Sandhills, the Nebraska Panhandle, the Loup Rivers Basin, and large portions of southeast Wyoming. West to northwest winds will increase to 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching 40 to 45 mph, while relative humidity drops to between 13 and 14 percent. Afternoon temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-70s, further drying grasses and dormant fuels.
The highest wildfire risk is focused along and north of I-80, including Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, the Nebraska National Forest, and the North Platte River Basin. In Wyoming, the Laramie Foothills, Goshen County, and the Wheatland and Chugwater areas face rapid fire spread potential as winds shift northwest late this afternoon, which can cause erratic fire behavior.
Officials warn that any ignition could grow quickly and become difficult to control. Outdoor burning, debris fires, and activities that create sparks are strongly discouraged. Motorists are urged to secure trailer chains and avoid parking vehicles on dry grass.
Red Flag Warnings expire late this afternoon, but fire agencies caution that dry fuels may keep elevated fire danger in place into Tuesday if winds remain gusty.
