Wildfires are currently affecting several parts of Nebraska, especially the south-central and southeast regions, with additional recent activity in central and northern counties.

Quick Scoop

Where the fires are right now (early–mid March 2026)

Based on the latest publicly reported updates, recent or ongoing fires have been located in:

  • Southeast Nebraska – multiple fires reported in:
    • Seward County
    • Fillmore County
    • Saline County
    • Jefferson County
    • Gage County
    • Lancaster County (including several fires in the western part of the county, one roughly 5 miles east of Crete).
  • South‑central Nebraska – a major wildfire (around 30,000 acres) reported in:
    • Gosper County
    • Furnas County
      This fire was recently described as 0% contained in official briefings.
  • Central and north‑central Nebraska (recent events this season) :
    • Rock County, near Bassett.
* Sherman County, near Ansley.

High winds and very dry fuels have been a big driver in these outbreaks, and officials have repeatedly warned that fires can spread and start very quickly under these conditions.

Key road and safety notes

  • In Lancaster County, smoke and fire activity led to temporary closure of:
    • Nebraska Highway 33
    • Portions of U.S. 77, due to reduced visibility from smoke.
  • Local fire officials across the state have been urging people to:
    • Avoid outdoor burning.
    • Use extreme caution with any “hot work” (welding, grinding, equipment that can spark).
    • Call 911 immediately if a fire starts rather than trying to handle it alone.

Simple location table (current season highlights)

[1] [6] [9]
Area Counties / Nearby towns Notes
Southeast Nebraska Seward, Fillmore, Saline, Jefferson, Gage, Lancaster (near Crete) Multiple wildfires, evacuations and some road closures reported.
South‑central Nebraska Gosper, Furnas Large ~30,000‑acre wildfire, recently reported at 0% containment.
Central / north‑central Nebraska Rock (near Bassett), Sherman (near Ansley) Wildfires tied to high winds earlier this season.

If you’re nearby

Wildfire situations change fast, so for truly up‑to‑the‑minute info (exact perimeters, evacuations, and closures) in Nebraska, you should:

  1. Check county sheriff or emergency management pages and social media for your specific county.
  2. Listen to Nebraska Public Media or local TV/radio alerts.
  1. Monitor Nebraska Emergency Management Agency updates for statewide incidents.

If you tell me your nearest town or county, I can help you interpret which of these areas is closest to you and what to watch for.