Flames from a grass fire in progress, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
FARNAM — An evacuation order for the community of Farnam that was issued Thursday evening is still in effect as fire continues to burn in the area.
During the afternoon of Thursday, March 12, a large wildfire took place south of Maxwell, Brady and Gothenburg and began spreading south as winds switched to blowing out of the north.
At 9:02 p.m., Dawson County Emergency Management ordered the evacuation of Farnam in far southwest of the county due to the approaching wildfire.
Citizen were instructed to drive east to Eustis and seek shelter, where Frontier County officials were on scene to assist.
As of 8 a.m. on Friday, March 13, Brian Woldt, the Dawson County Emergency Manager, said that the evacuation order still stands as fire was still burning to the north and west of Farnam.
Woldt said a determination will be made later this morning if the evacuation order will be continued. He noted the Farnam Fire Hall is being utilized by area fire departments that are combating the fires.
Firefighters were working on the north line of the fire, trying to get it knocked out ahead of higher winds forecast for this weekend.
8:30 a.m. Update:
Dawson County Emergency Management is advising residents of far southwest Dawson County impacted by the wildfire, including the town of Farnam, to remain at a safe location today as fire operations continue. Please hold off on returning to the area.
Highway 47 south of Gothenburg remains closed as do some county roads. Fire crews will be on scene throughout the day not only in southwest Dawson County, but also southeast Lincoln County where the wildfire remains active.
Again, Dawson County Emergency Management asks residents of far southwest Dawson County to avoid the area until it is safe to return. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
