Grass fire near Loup City threatens homes, prompting multi-agency response

LOUP CITY, Neb. (KSNB) - The Loup City Fire Department responded to a grass fire that broke out near Highway 58 and 797 Road in Sherman County on Thursday.

According to the Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, the fire quickly spread into Valley County, prompting a coordinated response from Region 26 Emergency Management, Valley County Sheriff’s Office, and several other agencies.

Due to hazardous weather and high fire danger, multiple resources were immediately deployed to battle the rapidly growing blaze, which threatened nearby residences. Two homes were evacuated as the fire neared.

The fire, which burned through difficult terrain and pastures, has been contained and is now being monitored.

Alma Beland with Region 26 Emergency Management estimated the damage to be 600 to 1000 acres. Two residences were evacuated, but not not damaged in the fire.

Firefighters monitored the kindling overnight and suppressed hot spots and will continue to monitor the fire Friday as fire danger continues.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation but is believed to have been intentionally started.

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