ASHBY, Neb. — Fire officials are now managing four major wildfires in western Nebraska — the Ashby, Minor, Cottonwood and Morrill Fires — under a coordinated incident response as crews continue suppression and containment efforts.
Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 1 is currently overseeing all four fires under the direction of the State of Nebraska. The State Emergency Operations Center remains fully operational and is coordinating response efforts.
A transition in command is set for Saturday at 6 p.m., when management responsibility will shift through a formal transfer of command process. The Morrill Fire will transition to local fire departments, the Cottonwood Fire will move to a Nebraska Type 3 Incident Management Team, and the Ashby and Minor Fires will transfer to Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 2.
Officials say incoming teams are already arriving and beginning the transition process, which includes a “shadow” period to ensure continuity and firefighter safety.
Until command is transferred, all four fires remain under the responsibility of Rocky Mountain CIMT 1, with crews continuing full suppression efforts. Resources assigned to the incidents include multiple ground crews, engines, and aerial support such as Black Hawk helicopters, air tankers and an unmanned aircraft system. Firefighters and equipment remain available to respond to any new fire starts.
Officials note that unburned vegetation inside fire perimeters can still ignite, producing smoke that may be visible from nearby communities. Crews will continue to investigate smoke reports as needed.
Fire behavior is expected to moderate Friday, with cooler temperatures in the 50s, relative humidity above 20%, and lighter winds. These conditions should help reduce fire activity, particularly on the Ashby and Minor Fires. However, more critical fire weather conditions are expected to return Saturday.
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in place over the Ashby and Minor Fires. Officials remind the public, “If you fly, we can’t!” Unauthorized aircraft can interfere with firefighting operations and pose safety risks.
Ashby Fire
The Ashby Fire showed significant slowing Thursday after rapid early growth. Firefighters reported no overnight fire activity and are now working to secure firelines and mop up hotspots along the perimeter.
The fire is estimated at 37,150 acres and remains 0% contained. A total of 41 personnel are assigned. The cause is under investigation.
Minor Fire
The Minor Fire was also slowed Thursday with the help of aerial suppression, including multiple water drops from air tankers. The fire made a push south Thursday evening through dry vegetation before crews halted its advance.
It is currently estimated at 13,805 acres with 1% containment. Forty-three personnel are assigned. The cause remains under investigation.
Cottonwood Fire
Crews continue to make strong progress on the Cottonwood Fire, which is now 98% contained. Firefighters are patrolling the perimeter and extinguishing remaining hotspots.
The fire has burned 129,103 acres and has 183 personnel assigned. The cause is still under investigation.
Morrill Fire
The Morrill Fire, which has burned 642,029 acres, is now 100% contained. However, officials say interior hotspots remain a concern, and a small number of crews will continue to patrol and monitor the area.
Those crews may also assist with response efforts on the Ashby and Minor Fires as needed.