Fire crews continue battling the rapidly growing South Fork Fire near Crawford in northwest Nebraska. The Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team Two officially took command of the fire at six o’clock Thursday morning.
The wildfire has now burned more than 23,000 acres and is five percent contained. More than 140 personnel are assigned to the incident, including National Guard members, aviation resources, and ground crews.
Firefighters spent the night protecting homes and other threatened areas near Crawford and Fort Robinson. Crews are now evaluating suppression strategies as Red Flag Warnings and critical fire weather conditions continue to challenge firefighting efforts. Officials say extremely dry vegetation and rugged terrain are contributing to rapid fire growth.
Evacuations remain in effect for Fort Robinson State Park and portions of Crawford. Authorities say 22 structures and 95 people are currently under active evacuation orders, including residents of the Ponderosa Villa assisted living facility. A preliminary evacuation notice has also been issued for the entire city of Crawford, and residents are being urged to prepare in case additional evacuations become necessary.
Emergency managers are working with the Red Cross on shelter options, while Chadron State College is preparing to assist if needed.
Officials have created a Facebook page, South Fork Fire Nebraska, and updates are also available through InciWeb. Smoke from the fire may affect air quality across the region, especially for people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
(Map courtesy Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 2)