Wildfire burning in Morrill County moves toward Garden County amid high winds
A fast-moving wildfire northeast of Bridgeport in Morrill County is spreading into western Garden County amid 70+ mph wind gusts. Residents in parts of Garden County are being told to prepare for possible evacuation.
By News Channel NebraskaPhoto: A semi-tractor-trailer seen blown over by gusty winds Thursday afternoon near the junction of Highway 26 and 385 in Morrill County.
MORRILL COUNTY, Neb. — Fire crews are responding to a fast-moving vegetation fire Thursday afternoon northeast of Bridgeport as powerful winds continue to impact the Nebraska Panhandle.
The fire was reported near County Road 11 and County Road 112 in Morrill County, northeast of Bridgeport and north of Broadwater. Authorities say the fire has grown and is now moving east into western Garden County.
Emergency alerts warned residents in the area to prepare for a possible evacuation.
The alert stated: “Western Garden County wildfire moving east. Prepare in advance for possible evacuation. No further information at this time. Observe further notifications to come later. Special attention between Roads 70 North to Road 92.”
A second alert issued at approximately 4:11 p.m. expanded the warning area.
“SOUTH CRESCENT LAKE TO RD 82 NORTH CENTRAL GARDEN COUNTY PREPARE TO EVACUATE,” the alert stated.
Mutual aid was called into the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department at 2:02 p.m.
The fire is burning during an ongoing high wind event across the region. Wind gusts exceeding 70 mph have been reported in the area, creating extremely dangerous fire conditions.
Wheat Belt Public Power District reported a power outage near the Covalt Substation north of Broadwater due to the fire. Officials said crews working with local fire departments made the decision to terminate power to the area for safety reasons.
Reports from the area also indicate downed power poles in Bridgeport causing additional outages.
The strong winds are also creating hazardous travel conditions. A News Channel Nebraska reporter said a semi tractor-trailer blown over near the junction of Highway 26 and Highway 285.
Emergency responders from multiple departments are working to contain the fire. Additional details about the size of the fire, damage and any evacuations were not immediately available.
News Channel Nebraska reporters are en route to the scene and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
A second fire was reported shortly after 3:30 p.m. in Scotts Bluff County near County Road 28 and Highway 26 near Minatare.