Wildfires erupted in the Hamptons on Saturday, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, according to Long Island officials. The fires, covering an area roughly 3 miles by 1 mile near Westhampton along a New York highway, closed a portion of the Sunrise Highway and a service road, as confirmed by Suffolk County officials. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency and the National Guard is providing air support to combat the blazes.
At least four fires have been reported, with one fire still burning at 50% containment by Saturday evening. One firefighter sustained burns to the face and was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital’s Burn Center. While two commercial buildings suffered partial damage, there is currently no threat to homes. Dry weather, low humidity, and woodland damage from a southern pine beetle infestation are exacerbating the fire conditions, prompting local authorities to issue emergency declarations.
The National Weather Service warned of elevated fire risk due to low humidity and strong wind gusts, urging extreme caution with potential ignition sources. Concurrently, a brush fire was tackled by New York City firefighters in Brooklyn. Air quality concerns have also been raised by Governor Hochul.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
