Bridgeport firefighters describe first moments of historic Morrill Fire
Crews say the wildfire spread 10 miles in 14 minutes near Angora before growing to more than 570,000 acres.
BRIDGEPORT, Neb. — Firefighters with the Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department are recalling the first moments of what would become the largest wildfire in Nebraska history.
Tim Kampsnider and Casey Sides with the Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department were among the first crews on scene when the fire started near Angora in Morrill County.
Firefighters say the fire spread rapidly as strong winds and dry conditions fueled the flames. The blaze grew roughly 10 miles in about 14 minutes as winds reached around 80 miles per hour.
Crews say they were initially responding to a rollover crash when they received the wildfire call. Once they confirmed the driver was safe, firefighters turned around and headed toward the fire.
Mutual aid from nearby departments was called almost immediately as crews realized how quickly the fire was spreading.
Firefighters said communication was also a major challenge during the response due to limited radio coverage and unreliable cell service in the area.
The wildfire has since burned more than 570,000 acres across western Nebraska, becoming the largest wildfire in state history.