Road 203 Fire grows to more than 35,000 acres, 36% contained near Halsey

Officials say crews are making progress using air and ground resources as Red Flag conditions continue and closures remain in place

March 17, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026
By Naydu Daza Maya

Press release

HASLEY, Neb. — The Road 203 Fire near Halsey has burned more than 35,000 acres and is now 36% contained, according to the Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3.

Crews made strong progress, using helicopters, UTVs and drones to reach difficult areas and extinguish remaining hotspots, especially along the south and western edges of the fire.

Firefighters continue to patrol and secure containment lines as conditions improve, and officials say resources may begin to scale down in the coming days.

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect Tuesday, with strong winds, low humidity and dry conditions increasing fire risk.

The Bessey Ranger District remains closed, and a temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area.

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