Nebraska Wildfires

Overview

In mid-March 2026, dry, warm, and windy conditions ignited extreme wildfire activity across western Nebraska. The Morrill Fire alone burned 642,029 acres, making it the largest wildfire in Nebraska state history. Combined with the Cottonwood Fire (129,103 acres) and the Road 203 Fire (35,912 acres in the Nebraska National Forest), over 800,000 acres burned, far eclipsing the 2012 state record. One person, an 86-year-old resident of Arthur, lost their life. More than 35,000 cattle were displaced, miles of fencing were destroyed, and homes and barns were lost. The governor declared emergencies in multiple counties. The Red Cross opened shelters, served nearly 2,000 meals, and distributed over 280 emergency relief supplies. Mental health volunteers were also deployed to support affected ranching communities.