This footage was filmed and produced 26 February 2024.

A significant grass fire northeast of North Platte has spurred urgent evacuation orders and a rapid mobilization of emergency responders.

On February 26th, 2024, the North Platte Police Department issued evacuation advisories for residents residing north of Brady and Gothenburg due to the escalating blaze. Officials have urged the activation of center pivots in the affected areas to assist in containing the fire, with Dawson County Emergency Manager Brian Woldt specifically calling for their use north of Gothenburg.

Highway 47 has been closed at Road 774 north of Gothenburg, according to Dawson County Sheriff Mark Montgomery, as efforts intensify to control the spread of the fire. Multiple fire departments, including three from Dawson County, are collaborating in mutual aid efforts, deploying grass rigs, tankers, and manpower to combat the inferno.

North Platte Fire Chief Dennis Thompson disclosed that firefighting units have been battling the blaze since approximately 11:30 a.m., highlighting the rapid progression of the fire and the challenges faced in preventing it from crossing roads. Additional aerial support has been dispatched to augment ground efforts.

Residents in the vicinity of Rolling Hills Rd to N Maxwell Rd have been instructed to evacuate, with the Salvation Army facility at 1020 N Adams Street in North Platte serving as a refuge for those affected. Responders are directed to proceed to the staging area near Rolling Hills Road via Maxwell Road to coordinate the ongoing response efforts.