'A Nebraska fight': Governor urges safety over property after wildfires in western Nebraska
Governor Jim Pillen toured the devastation in western Nebraska today, as massive wildfires continue to tear through the state.
OGALLALA, Neb. — Gov. Jim Pillen toured the devastation in western Nebraska today, as massive wildfires continue to tear through the state.
Officials estimate over 600,000 total acres have been affected so far.
At a press conference in Keith County, the governor said support is pouring in from Omaha and across Nebraska to fight the blazes.
“This is a Nebraska fight. This isn’t a panhandle fight," Pillen said. "This is a Nebraska fight and this is bringing Nebraska tighter, unlike any time I’ve seen in my lifetime."
The governor announced the news of the state's first fatality, Rose White, a grandmother in Arthur County who died while attempting to evacuate her home.
He wants Nebraskans to know that their life is more valuable than their land.
“To a rancher that’s never going to leave his place because it’s his life, I think I understand, and my thing is don’t be a thick head like me. If it's the worst day, we’ll help you rebuild, but your life is more important,” Pillen said.
With winds expected to strengthen on Saturday night, Pillen wants Nebraskans to be alert in case an evacuation order is issued.