OMAHA, NE – A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley for a large swath of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, encompassing numerous counties, due to anticipated high winds and critically low humidity. The warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST on Friday, February 27, 2025.
The affected area includes the Nebraska counties of Knox, Cedar, Antelope, Pierce, Wayne, Boone, Madison, Stanton, Cuming, Platte, Colfax, Butler, Seward, Saline, Jefferson, and Gage, along with western Iowa.
Meteorologists predict northwest winds of 20 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Coupled with relative humidity levels dropping as low as 17 to 25 percent, particularly in the southern regions of the warned area, conditions will be ripe for rapid wildfire spread.
“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” warned the National Weather Service. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
The previously issued Fire Weather Watch has been upgraded to a Red Flag Warning, signaling the imminent danger of critical fire weather conditions. Residents are urged to take extreme precautions to prevent sparks and to closely monitor any areas where recent fires may have occurred.
“A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly,” the NWS stated. “A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.”
Residents are advised to avoid any activities that could generate sparks, such as using outdoor power equipment, and to ensure proper disposal of cigarettes. They should also be prepared for potential rapid changes in fire behavior and to heed any evacuation orders.
