Firefighters battling the South Fork Fire in northwest Nebraska are asking the public to stay clear of active fire areas along Highway 20. Fire officials said Monday motorists should not stop on the highway or pull off near firefighting operations, particularly south of Highway 20 on the fire’s southeastern edge.
Fire managers say stopping in the area creates safety hazards for both the public and fire crews and can interfere with suppression efforts. The South Fork Fire in Dawes and Sioux Counties remains 55 percent contained and has burned nearly 39,000 acres. About 581 personnel are assigned to the incident.
Crews continue strengthening containment lines and mopping up hotspots, especially on the fire’s western edge in the Soldier Creek Wilderness where strong winds fueled additional fire growth Friday night. Fire managers say warmer, drier weather and increasing winds are expected through midweek, creating elevated fire danger and testing existing containment lines.
An air quality alert remains in effect for Dawes County through midday Monday because of smoke from the fire. Officials also remind the public that a temporary flight restriction remains in place over the fire area, and drones are strictly prohibited because they pose a risk to firefighting aircraft.
(Photo: South Fork Fire FB page)