WASHINGTON, D.C. — Nebraska Congressman Adrian Smith addressed the U.S. House floor Wednesday, calling the ongoing wildfires across the state the worst in Nebraska history and highlighting the widespread devastation.
“I rise today… as our state confronts the worst wildfire crisis in our history,” Smith said during his remarks.
According to Smith, more than 826,000 acres have burned across central and western Nebraska as fires continue to impact rural communities.
“The scale of this devastation is staggering,” he said.
Smith noted at least 46 structures have been destroyed, with approximately 600 people forced to evacuate. He also confirmed one death in Arthur County connected to the fires.
Despite the destruction, Smith emphasized the resilience of Nebraskans and the response effort underway.
“Nebraskans are doing what we have always done: coming together,” he said.
The congressman praised volunteer firefighters, ranchers, and first responders who have been working around the clock to contain the fires and protect property.
Smith also encouraged those impacted to document damages and losses to assist with potential disaster relief efforts.
In his remarks, he called attention to the importance of maintaining federal disaster support, including funding for agencies like FEMA, to ensure affected communities receive the assistance they need.
He closed by asking for continued prayers and support for those affected by the fires, as crews continue working to contain the blazes across the state.