Western Nebraska's Bronco Fire said to be over 95% contained
A western Nebraska wildfire that has burned over 1,060 acres near Crawford is reported to be 97% contained, according to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.
The Bronco Fire was caused by a lightning strike and was first reported Wednesday about 11 miles northwest of Crawford. Battling the fire are 110 firefighters and multiple air resources. Rough terrain and erratic winds were among the challenges firefighters face, authorities said.
"The fire is now 97% contained," NEMA spokesperson Katrina Cerveny said Sunday. "Crews are doing some clean up today. We're confident that our (fire support) helicopters will be back in Lincoln on Monday. "
Gov. Jim Pillen issued a verbal disaster declaration that will be followed by a written proclamation. The public is asked not to travel on Milo Road, Sand Creek Road and Cottonwood Road.
"Thank you to all the firefighters who worked to safely contain the fire," incident commander Nathan Flowers of the Gering Volunteer Fire Department said. "We appreciate the support of the community. We ask the public to continue to stay off the roads in the fire area."
Authorities said no future press conferences are planned. For further information, watch the Crawford Volunteer Fire Department or the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Facebook pages.
Crawford is a town of about 1,000 residents located in northwest Nebraska.
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