Pillen issues statewide burn ban as wildfires spread across Nebraska

Gov. Jim Pillen announced a statewide burn ban Friday to reduce the risk of additional wildfires as dry and windy conditions continue across Nebraska

March 13, 2026Updated: March 13, 2026
By Naydu Daza Maya

Press release
LINCOLN, Neb. — Gov. Jim Pillen announced a statewide burn ban Friday to reduce the risk of additional wildfires as dry and windy conditions continue across Nebraska.

State officials say the weather has contributed to several significant fires in central and western parts of the state.

Earlier Friday, Pillen also issued an emergency proclamation activating state resources to help fight the fires, including aircraft and personnel from the Nebraska National Guard.

The governor’s executive order prohibiting burning will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on March 27.

State Fire Marshal Doug Hohbein has also provided an update to fire chiefs across Nebraska regarding the burn ban.

A copy of the governor’s executive order will be released later Friday after it is countersigned by the Nebraska Secretary of State.

Regional

Chokecherry prescribed burn declared a wildfire

Chokecherry prescribed burn declared a wildfire

Lemoyne residents recount evacuation as Morrill Fire grows to more than 453,000 acres

Lemoyne residents recount evacuation as Morrill Fire grows to more than 453,000 acres

The Prairie Club escapes building damage from nearby wildfire

The Prairie Club escapes building damage from nearby wildfire

One dead in massive Morrill Fire that's burned more than 453,000 acres across western Nebraska

Massive Morrill Fire burns 330,000 acres across Nebraska Panhandle, remains 0% contained

Fire nearly Halsey burns 36,000 acres

Fire nearly Halsey burns 36,000 acres

Fire south of Valentine, Kilgore burns thousands of acres, damages buildings

Fire south of Valentine, Kilgore burns thousands of acres, damages buildings