This photo, taken by Sheriff Kevin Mueller from his home on Road 740 just west of Hwy. 61 northwest of Imperial, shows the massive line of fire that was being driven by gusts of at least 45 mph. The fire was headed towards the northwest corner of Imperial. Firefighters got it under control before it could reach the outer edge of Imperial.
Wednesday night fire encroaches Imperial
Firemen from at least four departments battled a huge blaze late Wednesday night that was headed toward the northwest corner of Imperial.
Unofficial accounts say the fire started about three miles northwest of Imperial, apparently from a downed power line taken down by the high winds.
Winds subsided somewhat, allowing firemen to bring it under control in fields north of Hwy. 6 between Titan Machiney and Haarberg Farms and Lindskov Ag to the west.
High winds, with gusts up to 60 mph, remain in the forecast through Friday afternoon.
Benkelman firemen were called to a fire southeast of Benkelman Thursday morning.
Just before noon, Imperial firemen were called to Imperial Beef, where hay bales had caught fire.
Watch for full coverage of the events in next week's Imperial Republican.