Nebraska Declares State of Emergency Over Wildfires

Governor activates emergency plans as blazes force evacuations across several counties

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:23pm

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Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has declared a state of emergency in seven counties after wildfires broke out and forced evacuations across the state on Thursday. The proclamation will allow the state's Adjutant General to activate emergency plans and take steps to protect life and property.

Why it matters

Wildfires are an increasing threat in the Great Plains region due to drought and high temperatures. This declaration will free up resources and coordination to help firefighters battle the blazes and support affected communities.

The details

The state of emergency declaration covers Morrill, Garden, Arthur, Keith, Lincoln, Dawson and Frontier counties. Governor Pillen said the proclamation will enable the state's Adjutant General and disaster coordinator to activate emergency plans and take necessary steps to respond to the wildfires.

  • The wildfires broke out and forced evacuations across Nebraska on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
  • Governor Pillen signed the state of emergency proclamation on Friday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Jim Pillen

The Governor of Nebraska who declared the state of emergency.

Craig Strong

Nebraska's Adjutant General and state disaster coordinator, who will activate emergency plans in response to the wildfires.

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The takeaway

This emergency declaration highlights the growing threat of wildfires in the Great Plains region and the need for coordinated state and local responses to protect communities from these dangerous natural disasters.