GERING, Neb. — A fast-moving wildfire has destroyed three homes and damaged seven others in western Nebraska, the local emergency management agency said.
The Carter Canyon Fire was first reported as two separate fires around 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Both were burning in heavy timber within the Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area and Carter Canyon Public Land southwest of Gering in the Nebraska panhandle.
Firefighters tried to stop the fires, but heavy timber, rough terrain and wind-driven runs hampered their efforts. The fires merged and made a run through Cedar Canyon Estates, destroying three homes and damaging seven others.
The fire has burned 13,051 acres and is 30% contained as of Sunday afternoon.
More than 35 local volunteer fire departments are helping fight the fire. County, state and federal resources are also assisting.
A spokesperson with the Nebraska Forest Service said right now they believe lightning started the fires. They were reported by helicopter ambulance pilots who said they saw lightning start several fires in the area.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Wildfires in Colorado
9NEWS+ has multiple live daily shows including 9NEWS Mornings, Next with Kyle Clark and Daily+, an original stream program. 9NEWS+ is where you can watch live breaking news, weather updates, and press conferences. You can also replay recent newscasts and find videos on demand of our top stories, local politics, investigations and Colorado specific features.
To download 9NEWS+ on Roku search for KUSA.
To download 9NEWS+ on Fire TV search for 9NEWS.