News

Bird's-Eye View of Niobrara River Valley Fires

Posted: 3:25 PM Jul 24, 2012
Reporter: David Jespersen

Bird's-Eye View of Niobrara River Valley Fires, David Jespersen Reports on 10/11 News at 10
Bird's-Eye View of Niobrara River Valley Fires, David Jespersen Reports on 10/11 News at 6
Aerial View of Wildfire - On the Phone with David Jespersen at 5

Thirty mile an hour winds threaten to spread the Niobrara River Canyon Wildfire farther north. Firefighters have contained 15% of the fire as of Tuesday afternoon. Nearly 66,000 acres have been destroyed so far with 239 firefighters from 30 stations on the scene since Friday.

Four helicopters are continuing to assist ground crews in reaching a higher containment goal.

As you fly in from the south about 30 to 40 miles away, there is smoke on the landscape, on the horizon. There are three different, distinct, wildfires. Zones have been created to fight each of these fires more effectively.

From above, you can make out flames on the ground and periodically, there are fireballs erupting out of the smoke and darkness.

It's obvious how strong that wind is because the smoke is coming up at such an angle in the air. It has to be a nightmare for the crews on the ground containing because it's very rugged land. It's difficult to get out to where these fires are burning.

Thanks to 10/11 viewer Emily Estes for capturing video of a plane dropping fire retardant that was used in Monday's 10pm report.