HYANNIS, Neb. — A wildfire that broke out overnight in Grant County has prompted evacuations in the communities of Hyannis and Ashby, as crews work to contain the fast-moving blaze.
Local authorities ordered residents in both areas to evacuate as a precaution while firefighters responded to the fire, which started late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning.
Hyannis High School has been opened as a refuge site for those displaced. School officials also announced there will be no classes held Thursday, March 26.
The new fire is located roughly 25 miles from the northern containment lines of the Morrill Fire in western Nebraska, raising concerns as crews continue working on multiple fires across the region.
Governor Jim Pillen said the state is providing support to assist local crews. He said he has “ordered state assets to the Ashby and Hyannis areas in Grant County to support local firefighters dealing with a new wildfire that started overnight.”
Road conditions in the area were impacted early Thursday. Highway 2 experienced closures but has since reopened, according to Nebraska 511. Drivers are still urged to use caution, particularly with Red Flag Warnings in effect across the region, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread.
Images from Nebraska 511 traffic cameras near Arthur around 5:47 a.m. showed reduced visibility and active fire conditions in the area.
Officials continue to urge residents to follow all evacuation orders and remain alert as fire conditions can change quickly.
At this time, no injuries or structural damage have been officially reported.