Custer County Complex Fire Response Continues as Governor Declares State of Emergency

BROKEN BOW, Neb. – More than 150 firefighters have been actively battling the Custer County Complex Fire at its peak, working tirelessly to contain the spread. Governor Jim Pillen has declared a state of emergency for this fire, as well as The Schaffer Road Fire near Chadron, to facilitate critical response efforts.

The Governor’s emergency proclamations authorize the state’s adjutant general to implement state emergency plans and allocate necessary resources to manage and mitigate the fires effectively. The declaration also allowed the Nebraska Military Department to send 22 soldiers and airmen from the Nebraska National Guard to assist with fighting the Custer County fires.

Fire officials have divided the three fires in Custer County into two operational divisions:
West Division:
Eureka Valley Fire – 4,800 acres burned, 75% contained.
East Division:
Lillian Fire and East Table Road Fire – 1,350 acres burned, 55% contained.

Fire response efforts are being supported by multiple aircraft, including two helicopters conducting water drops and aerial observations. The Broken Bow Fire Department has requested that the public refrain from flying drones in the area to ensure safe and effective firefighting operations.

As fire danger remains high, officials are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. The majority of Nebraska will be under ‘extreme’ fire danger on Friday. Residents are advised to avoid any activities that could ignite new fires, such as unmonitored debris burns.

Emergency response teams extend their gratitude to the community for their continued support, including Hot Meals USA for providing meals to first responders.