Winds push large fires across South Dakota and Nebraska

Okreek fire in South Dakota
Okreek fire in South Dakota. Photo: Kathie Cole

Strong winds have pushed large fires across the plains of South Dakota and Nebraska over the last two days. The largest, the Okreek fire between Winner and Mission in South Dakota has burned 7,500 acres and is 22 miles long. Spokesperson Jeni Lawver told us at 10:35 a.m. today that there were no evacuations in effect and there have been no serious injuries. Joe Lowe’s Type 2 Incident Management Team assumed command of the fire at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. At least some of the fire is on the Rosebud Indian Reservation.

A reporter for KELO television said the winds were so strong that it made it difficult to stand. The weather forecast offers little relief and calls for 33 to 41 mph winds out of the northwest with gusts up to 57 mph on Thursday. There is a 19% chance for thunderstorms Thursday afternoon, increasing to 40% Thursday night.

Okreek fire in South Dakota
Okreek fire in South Dakota. Photo: Kathie Cole

There are media reports that two firefighters from Yankton, SD were injured on a fire in Nebraska’s Cedar County, but they are reported to be in good condition after receiving medical treatment. Another report says a firefighter from Kennebec, South Dakota suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation while working on a fire in Lyman County. The “Harvest CA” fire, five miles south of Stapleton, Nebraska, has burned 7,000 acres.

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.

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