Cottonwood Fire grows to more than 131,000 acres in central Nebraska

By Peter Rice

Firefighters continue working to contain the Cottonwood Fire, which has burned more than 122,000 acres in central Nebraska, according to the Incident Management Team on scene.

Crews worked through the weekend and into Monday to control activity along both the north and south flanks of the fire, keeping growth minimal despite several spot fires.

Fire activity was also kept in check near Jeffrey Reservoir, where video showed heavy smoke visible for miles and a campfire-like smell lingering in the air.

The Incident Management Team said on social media that crews will continue patrolling the fire’s perimeter, mopping up hot spots and reinforcing fire lines.

Officials said evacuation notices remain in effect for the Jeffrey Reservoir area, as well as for residents living two to three miles south of Gothenburg.

The Brady Community Center is offering free food and shelter to those affected.