VALENTINE, Neb. - From Ainsworth to Gordon and Chadron, firefighters across the Nebraska Sandhills and Panhandle have been busy fighting fire after fire.

“Our fire season started the end of February, and it hasn’t ended yet,” said Cherry and Keya Paha Counties Emergency Management Director Jessica Coyle.

Coyle is based in Valentine, which recently experienced its warmest and third-driest September on record. The region is once again under a red flag warning on Wednesday.

“We got so much moisture in the spring that all the fuels really grew, so we have extra fuel in some areas,” said Coyle.

Here’s a look at some of the latest fires:

 

  Bronco Fire Courtesy-: Chadron Volunteer Fire Dept

 

The Bronco Fire scorched more than 1,000 acres near Crawford. Air tankers and ground crews worked for days, battling high winds and rough terrain.

The Power Dam Road fire, which was near White River, South Dakota, not far from the Nebraska border, burned more than 15,300 acres.

Courtesy: BIA
Courtesy: BIA  

 

Not to mention, dozens of other smaller fires have been igniting throughout the region.

Chadron area fire
Chadron area fire  

  

“We're just asking the public to assist. Make sure your stock tanks are full in case we do have a fire. Try to eliminate anything that may cause a spark. Be prepared with water in case you are doing something that could potentially start a fire," said Coyle.

Coyle also emphasized the importance of calling 911 if you spot a fire. She credits that, along with the quick response from volunteer firefighters, for why area fires haven’t caused more damage.

Firefighters who are prepared for the possibility of even more fires the next few weeks.

“I don’t see this pattern changing anytime soon,” said Coyle.