NORTH PLATTE, NE – The Betty’s Way Fire north of North Platte has increased to 82% containment.
According to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, firefighters continue to make progress with approximately 60 people working on managing the large and complex wildfire. The Nebraska State Fire Marshals Agency determined the fire was human caused from mowing operations.
Fire managers are monitoring fire weather concerns throughout the weekend, with the potential of increased winds and decreased relative humidity.
Heavy timber like trees have been impacted and continue to burn and put off smoke. In Division K, hand crew and fire engines are aggressively engaged in suppressing timber. In Division R, firefighters are using engines and hand tool to increase the depth of the fire perimeter, eliminating any heat that poses risks to the containment line. In Division Z firefighter are patrolling the perimeter and confirming there are no other threat to controlled line. In Division A and Division H, Fire engines are patrolling the perimeters making sure the containment line will hold.
Fire Managers are currently evaluating primary residences, outbuilding and agriculture/ranch infrastructure to determine the impact. In addition, managers are working with the American Red Cross and several state agencies to aid those affected.
Those impacted can contact:
- United States Department of Agriculture 308-534-2360
- Natural Resources Conservation Service 308-535-8080
- Salvation Army 308-535-2038
- American Red Cross 1-833-583-3111
Nebraska’s incident Management Team, based on Governor Jim Pillens state of emergency declaration, has provided assistance to local agencies with fire suppression. Wednesday’s efforts included developing a plan one the fire is contained. Pockets of heat and fuels continue to burn to burn within the perimeter for several days. Smoke will be visible within the fire footprint, but will not pose risks to the fire line and cause it to escape. Fire managers hope to make good progress which should allow minimal staff through the night and into the weekend.
