Broken Bow Blaze

(BROKEN BOW, Neb.) — On Wednesday evening, December 18th, the US National Weather Service North Platte Nebraska issued a warning of high winds in Central Nebraska. The threat expanded the following morning.

The probability for high winds has increased further to the south so the High Wind Warning has been expanded deeper into central Nebraska.

Be prepared for gusty conditions in crosswinds, especially those driving high profile vehicles. Any loose objects or decorations should be secured or brought inside to avoid damage.

Those high winds combined with a grass fire that quickly got out of control. At 4 pm, Custer County Emergency Management first mentioned the fire on their Facebook page.

Please avoid the Gates Road & Round Valley Road. Crews are fighting a grass fire.

By 6 pm, the fire caused several roads to be shut down.

Drivers are being asked to avoid the following roads:
-Gates County Road north of Broken Bow
-Round Valley Road north/northeast of Bow
-Hwy 70 east of town
-Hwy 2 between Broken Bow and Berwyn

Broken Bow fire crews, along with mutual aid from surrounding communities, continue battling the fire near Gates County Road and Round Valley Road. Custer County Emergency Management is asking motorists to avoid the area and give crews room to work.

Smoke from the fire is significantly reducing visibility on Highway 70, Highway 2, and adjacent routes.

Residents near these areas needed to find a safe place for the night.

Sherman County Nebraska Sheriff posted they were working with other agencies to get the blaze under control.

Thinking of Custer County as multiple Fire Departments have responded to assist with fighting fires in the county. Sherman County Nebraska Sheriff, Region 26 Emergency Management, Loup City Fire Department, Litchfield Fire and Rescue have all sent Personnel and equipment to assist.

As of 10 pm, the fire crews are still fighting the fire.

Please keep those in the path of the fire as well as those fighting it in your prayers tonight.

Adam’s Land and Cattle East lot – photo by **Lori Racick**

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