Nebraska Governor Deploys National Guard to Fight Wildfires

Statewide burn ban issued as state battles spreading blazes

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:59am

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Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has activated the state's National Guard and issued a statewide burn ban as crews work to contain multiple wildfires across the state. The burn ban will remain in effect until March 27, and the Falls City Rural Fire Department has suspended all burn permit issuance during this period.

Why it matters

Wildfires have become an increasing threat in Nebraska in recent years due to drought conditions and high temperatures. The deployment of the National Guard and the burn ban are aimed at preventing further spread of the fires and protecting public safety.

The details

Governor Pillen ordered the activation of the Nebraska National Guard to provide additional resources and manpower to assist local fire departments in battling the wildfires. The statewide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities, including campfires and the use of burn barrels, until March 27. The Falls City Rural Fire Department has also suspended the issuance of all burn permits during this time period.

  • The burn ban went into effect on March 17, 2026.
  • The ban will remain in place until March 27, 2026.

The players

Jim Pillen

The Governor of Nebraska who deployed the National Guard and issued the statewide burn ban.

Falls City Rural Fire Department

The local fire department that has suspended all burn permit issuance during the statewide burn ban.

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What’s next

The National Guard and local fire crews will continue to battle the wildfires across Nebraska until the burn ban is lifted on March 27.

The takeaway

The activation of the National Guard and the statewide burn ban demonstrate the seriousness of the wildfire threat facing Nebraska and the state's commitment to protecting public safety and property during this crisis.