WISNER, Neb. -- As of 6:24 p.m. the authorities said that residents are able to return to Wisner and the highway is open.

A northeast Nebraska highway was shut down and an entire town was being evacuated because of a wildfire.

A wildfire in a field south of Wisner has been reported and caused the Cuming County Sheriff to evacuate the town of nearly 12,000. There is no word on what caused the blaze and multiple fire departments have responded to the scene, battling sustained winds between 25 and 35 mph.

Highway 275 between Wisner and Beemer was closed. Authorities advised that people do not drive through a fire when attempting to evacuate.

Surrounding areas had opened buildings like the Beemer Ballroom and the Pilger Community Center for those that are needing a place to go.