Pillen issues statewide burn ban as wildfires spread across Nebraska

Press release
LINCOLN, Neb. — Gov. Jim Pillen announced a statewide burn ban Friday to reduce the risk of additional wildfires as dry and windy conditions continue across Nebraska.

State officials say the weather has contributed to several significant fires in central and western parts of the state.

Earlier Friday, Pillen also issued an emergency proclamation activating state resources to help fight the fires, including aircraft and personnel from the Nebraska National Guard.

The governor’s executive order prohibiting burning will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on March 27.

State Fire Marshal Doug Hohbein has also provided an update to fire chiefs across Nebraska regarding the burn ban.

A copy of the governor’s executive order will be released later Friday after it is countersigned by the Nebraska Secretary of State.