McCOOK, Neb. — Firefighters battled a grass fire near Red Willow Lake Saturday after an unattended campfire spread across dry vegetation, burning 80 to 85 acres.

The Red Willow Western Fire Department told News Channel Nebraska's partners at KNOP-TV crews were dispatched around 12:51 p.m. CDT. The blaze, fueled by gusty winds and dry conditions, was 85% contained by 6:22 p.m. No injuries were reported.

A Red Flag Warning was in effect for all of western and north central Nebraska throughout the day, with forecasters warning that strong westerly winds, low humidity and above-normal temperatures could lead to rapid fire spread and erratic fire behavior. Near-critical to critical fire weather conditions are expected to persist daily through at least Friday.

In a post following the fire, the Red Willow Western Rural Fire Department reminded the public of the ongoing fire danger: “After today we hope everyone is just a little more aware of how dry it is. Even fire pits, campfires and grilling over an open flame are dangerous.”