Officials gave an update Friday evening on the progress being made in controlling the Pressey Fire, which began Wednesday afternoon south of Broken Bow and north of Oconto near Pressey Park.
The wildfire has burned an estimated 9,141 acres and is 45 percent contained.
Previously, it was confirmed that one house had been lost in addition to several outbuildings. More than 130 personnel have been working on the fire recently, including helicopters from the Nebraska Air National Guard as well as a hand crew. Governor Jim Pillen has verbally approved an emergency proclamation.
Oconto Volunteer Fire and Rescue made a statement about the fire and its response.
“It has been a tense three days. Who would have thought responding to Pressey Park on Wednesday would find us fighting the same fire on Ryno Table and Ash Creek Canyon,” said the social media post. “But that is exactly what happened. We are so thankful to so many. All of Custer County showed up in full force as usual. Crews from towns I had never heard of in Nebraska were there! Community members that gave support with food, supplies, drinks, prayers. Farmers with their discs. I cannot begin to name everyone, but just know that all support, big or small, was so appreciated! What a great state and community we live in!”
While donations to support fire crews are appreciated, additional donations aren’t being requested at this time.
Posts from area fire departments can be seen below
Past story links on the Pressey Fire (in order of posting)
– Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto
– Pressey Fire burns 6,000 acres in Custer County, traveling 12 miles
– Pressey Fire acreage grows, one home and several outbuildings lost
