Firefighters are continuing containment efforts on multiple wildfires in western Nebraska as crews make progress on both the Ash Pole Fire and the Grizzly Bear Fire in Dawes County.
According to the latest information from fire officials and the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department, the Ash Pole Fire south of Chadron near the Nebraska National Forest is now estimated at approximately 1,100 acres and is 47% contained.
Crews spent the day building and reinforcing fire lines around the blaze with support from two hand crews, nine engines, four single-engine air tankers, and one Type 1 helicopter. Officials say fire line has now been established around the entire perimeter of the fire, and overnight crews continued monitoring hotspots and working to hold containment lines.
Fire managers are asking the public to avoid the area to allow firefighters and emergency personnel safe access during ongoing operations.
Meanwhile, the Grizzly Bear Fire has been contained at 73 acres. The fire burned through timber, grass, and steep terrain, creating difficult conditions for firefighters working in the rugged area.
Multiple local, state, and federal agencies have assisted with suppression efforts over the past several days as dry weather and windy conditions continue to elevate fire danger across western Nebraska.
Additional updates on the Ash Pole Fire are expected through InciWeb and the U.S. Forest Service.
Meanwhile, firefighters in Central Nebraska were dispatched Friday afternoon to a fire south of Pressey Park and north of Oconto, Neb.