Courtesy Photo / Nebraska State Patrol
North Platte wildfire.
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The Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Agency has determined that Monday’s wildfire in North Platte was caused by a lawnmower.
The fire was reported at about 10:30 a.m. Monday by an individual residing about eight miles northeast of North Platte. Authorities said the North Platte Fire Department responded within 12 minutes to the blaze that is also known as the Betty’s Way Fire. NPFD was later assisted by 15 volunteer fire departments.
Strong winds contributed to the fire growing quickly. Due to safety concerns, people were ordered to evacuate. As of Tuesday afternoon, the wildfire has burned more than 71,000 acres.
Gov. Jim Pillen has declared an emergency disaster, which provides firefighters with additional support from state agencies, including the Nebraska National Guard.
The Nebraska Emergency Management agency said no injuries have been reported, but two homes and numerous outbuildings have been destroyed by the wildfires.
