We have a brand new updated website! Click here to check it out!

Wildfire destroyed homes near Lake McConaughy, chief says

A fire that was brought under control early Sunday morning rekindled on Sunday afternoon forcing the evacuation of homes.  *(Photo by Always Kayak Facebook)
A fire that was brought under control early Sunday morning rekindled on Sunday afternoon forcing the evacuation of homes. *(Photo by Always Kayak Facebook)

LEMOYNE, Neb. (AP) — A fire chief says a wildfire has destroyed at least eight homes and several other buildings near Lake McConaughy (muh-KAH’-nuh-hay).

Keystone-Lemoyne Fire & Rescue Fire Chief Ralph Moul (mowl) said Monday that the blaze had been contained, but fire crews are still watching hot spots. Moul says residents had evacuated as flames raced their way, but several firefighters were treated for minor injuries.

He says more than 100 firefighters from a couple dozen departments responded to calls late Sunday morning. An overnight fire had rekindled as stiff winds whipped up embers near the northeast corner of the lake. He estimated that Sunday’s blaze blackened at least 500 acres.

The chief investigators suspect the original fire Saturday was caused by overheated wheel bearings on a vehicle.

Copyright Eagle Radio | FCC Public Files | EEO Public File