Fire departments from across Nebraska are sending personnel and equipment to assist with the ongoing Cottonwood and Morrill wildfires burning in western Nebraska.
Following a state of emergency declaration, the City of Omaha is deploying specialized personnel and equipment to help with wildfire containment efforts in Keith County. According to city officials, Omaha Fire Department crews were scheduled to depart at 5 a.m. Sunday.
Officials say the fires in Keith County have burned more than 500,000 acres and remain at 0% containment, prompting the governor’s request for additional mutual aid from departments across the state.
The Omaha Fire Department is sending eight personnel along with several vehicles, including an engine for structural protection and active suppression, a water tender to provide water supply in remote areas, and a brush truck designed for off-road maneuverability in fast-moving grass fires. Omaha crews are expected to remain in Keith County for up to seven days, or as long as their assistance is needed…