Gov. Jim Pillen has declared a state of emergency in Sioux County due to the Bronco Fire, which has burned over 1,000 acres since igniting on September 18.
The blaze, caused by lightning, is nearly contained, with the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency reporting it at 97% containment as of Monday.
The emergency proclamation enables the use of the Governor’s Emergency Fund and activates state resources to manage the ongoing situation.
At its peak, the firefighting effort involved over 130 personnel and multiple aircraft, including helicopters from the Nebraska National Guard.
The proclamation highlights the need for state support as local governments tackle the fire’s extensive impact.