Wildfire — Sheridan, Nebraska

2012-09-01 to 2012-09-04 · Sheridan, Nebraska

Event narrative

A wildfire ignited by lightning in late August continued into September to burn approximately 44,159 acres in Nebraska before being contained on September 4th. The wildfire spread north into South Dakota for a total of 77,159 acres burned before containment. Initial assessments showed the wildfire burned approximately 100 power poles. The Rushville Sheriff requested an Evacuate Immediate (NWEM) message as the fire spread into parks and to alert homeowners and campers in the area. The fire stats showed 50 to 60 outbuildings destroyed, and approximately 10 homes damaged as well as two homes and two commercial properties destroyed. The Nebraska National Guard was deployed (14 personnel) to help fight the fire, which included the use of two type three helicopters and one Blackhawk helicopter. Many roads in the area were closed as the fire burned. Cooperating agencies across Nebraska deployed 350 personnel, while 45 volunteer fire departments from across Nebraska and South Dakota responded to the fire-fighting efforts.

Wider weather episode

Lightning produced by high based thunderstorms ignited the Wellnitz Fire on August 29th. The fire burned over 77,159 acres of land, which included 44,159 acres in Nebraska. The fire started 10 miles north of Hay Springs, then spread into South Dakota onto the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The fire burned timber and grass, along with destroying up to 60 outbuildings, two homes, two commercial properties, and 100 power poles across Sheridan County. An additional 10 homes were damaged. The wildfire continued into September and was reported 100 percent contained on September 4th. The Nebraska National Guard was deployed (14 personnel) to help fight the fire, which included the use of two type three helicopters and one Blackhawk helicopter. Many roads in the area were closed as the fire burned. Cooperating agencies across Nebraska deployed 350 personnel, while 45 volunteer fire departments from across Nebraska and South Dakota responded to the fire-fighting efforts. Three non life-threatening injuries were reported from the fire and fire-fighting efforts.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 407727. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.