Morrill, Cottonwood Fires near full containment as crews begin scaling back

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Morrill and Cottonwood fires are both nearing full containment as fire crews continue mop-up efforts and begin scaling back resources across western Nebraska.

According to a Tuesday morning update from Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 1, both fires are now 98% contained. The Morrill Fire has burned more than 642,000 acres across five counties, while the Cottonwood Fire has grown to more than 129,000 acres.

With containment lines holding, fire managers are beginning to demobilize some personnel and equipment. Officials said firefighters will return to their home units for rest before potentially being reassigned to other wildfire activity across the country.

Fire activity on the Morrill Fire remains minimal. Crews reported only one heat source detected Monday and will continue patrolling the fire perimeter and interior, extinguishing any remaining hotspots.

On the Cottonwood Fire, strong winds Monday tested containment lines along the northern edge, but crews held the fire within its perimeter. Hand crews continue working to secure the remaining uncontained sections, while engine crews respond to smoke reports and patrol fire lines.

Four National Guard helicopters and a Nebraska State Patrol drone remain active in suppression efforts.

Despite progress, fire officials warn conditions remain critical. Temperatures are expected to approach 80 degrees Tuesday with low humidity, and a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Wednesday.

Officials say the risk for new fire starts remains high as vegetation across the region remains extremely dry.