05/15/2026
There are some forces in nature that remind us just how small we really are.
Watching these grass fires move across the plains was both terrifying and humbling. One minute the wind would push flames in one direction, and moments later it would shift again, sending fire racing somewhere new. The speed at which these fires started or spread County to County, was unbelievable — faster than most people could react or predict.
The irony of it all was hard to ignore. Roads were wet from scattered sprinkles, yet lightning from those same storms continued sparking new fires across the countryside. We needed rain, real rain, but instead the storms brought little relief and more danger.
And yet, in the middle of all of it, you could also see the best in people.
Neighbors, ranchers, farmers, volunteer firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, and neighboring communities all came together without hesitation. People showed up knowing the danger they were facing. First responders stood on the front lines while others brought equipment, water, food, trailers, and simply whatever they could offer to help stop the flames.
Prayers for everyone affected, for the firefighters and first responders still battling these fires, and for the rain we desperately need.
Photos Taken South of Dermot by Tyler Hook
