What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 1, 2025, the Plum Creek Fire was burning in the Sandhills region near Johnstown, in Brown County, north-central Nebraska and is nearly fully contained (1). The fire was burning in a rugged, wooded area alongside steep canyons and grasslands.

The previously controlled and prescribed burn broke through containment and quickly spread. Nebraska is experiencing drought conditions ranging from extreme in the west to abnormally dry in the eastern part of the state (2). 45 cattle have been killed, and one cabin has been destroyed.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Plum Creek fire was mostly affecting rural agricultural areas within Brown County, Nebraska. Johnstown, with a population of approximately 60 people, is nearest to the fire. While the town itself has not been directly threatened, some nearby structures were endangered.

Air quality was affected in nearby Ainsworth. Other nearby communities like Wood Lake and Long Pine may also have been affected, but do not have air quality monitors to measure the impact.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of May 1, the Plum Creek Fire is about 100% contained (3). Over 6,600 acres have burned.

More than 200 personnel, including local fire departments and National Guard members, were engaged in the firefighting efforts.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There were no evacuation orders issued. Governor Jim Pillen has declared an emergency, issued a statewide burn ban, and mobilized the National Guard to assist local fire departments (4).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of May 1, 2025, this fire is 100% contained.