Southeast Wyoming, Western Nebraska – Critical fire weather conditions are expected Saturday afternoon as the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, the Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST Saturday for multiple fire weather zones across the Laramie East High Plains, Goshen and Middle North Platte River Basin, Lodgepole Creek area, and portions of the southern Nebraska Panhandle. The warning includes areas near Scottsbluff National Monument, the Lower North Platte River Basin, and surrounding rangeland and grassland areas.
Forecasters report northwest winds sustained at 25 to 30 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 45 miles per hour, combined with very low relative humidity between 15 and 20 percent. This combination creates critical fire weather conditions, where any new fire starts could spread rapidly and become difficult to control.
The National Weather Service warns that outdoor burning is not recommended, as sparks from equipment, vehicles, or discarded materials could quickly ignite dry fuels. Fire behavior may become extreme in open terrain, especially during the peak afternoon wind period.
Areas affected include regions near Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 26, U.S. Highway 85, and U.S. Highway 385, where roadside ignitions are a concern due to wind-driven fire spread. Ranchers, farmers, and travelers are urged to use caution with any activities that could generate sparks.
Emergency managers emphasize that Red Flag Warnings indicate either ongoing or imminent critical fire weather conditions. Residents and workers in the affected zones should secure loose items, avoid welding or burning, and report any smoke or fire starts immediately.
Conditions are expected to improve after sunset as winds gradually decrease and humidity recovers. Until then, officials urge heightened awareness and preparedness across southeast Wyoming and the western Nebraska Panhandle.
