VALENTINE, Neb. — Firefighters are battling several fires in northcentral Nebraska that Region 26 Emergency Management says were sparked by dry lighting.

The Sand Reed fire was the first fire reported, and it’s located in Cherry County northwest of Elsmere. Region 26 says this fire is under control at this time.

The Windmill fire is approximately eight miles south of Thedford in Thomas County and is not under control. The Dent fire is also not under control and is approximately three miles northeast of Seneca in Thomas County.

Another fire is located approximately four miles east of Mullen, but few details have been released.

Region 26 says that no official evacuations are ordered or appear to be needed at this time. However, Thedford Fire Chief Spencer Buck says multiple structures are at risk.

Approximately 25 fire departments have responded to the fires.

“We would also like to thank our outstanding dispatchers who kept the calm in chaos during this incident, especially at this time as it is National Public Safety Telecommunications,” Region 26 Emergency Management Deputy Director Stena Seamann said.

The Cherry County Sheriff’s Office is asking everyone to keep an eye out for emergency vehicles responding to fires and weather emergencies. Please avoid any affected areas, and allow crews room to work.

Between the fires and the weather, Valentine Fire Chief Terry Engels says that everyone needs to be aware of what’s happening in their area.

Stay tuned to News Channel Nebraska for more on this developing story.