Firefighters in Long Island, New York managed to contain a wind-driven brush fire in the Pine Barrens on Sunday, a day after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency to prevent a situation akin to the recent devastating wildfires in Southern California. Despite crews making progress, the threat of intense wildfires still lingers.
Over the weekend, four fires broke out in the area, with the largest one being fully under control by Sunday evening. Suffolk County Fire Coordinator Rudy Sunderman reported that fire crews had managed to contain the blaze, which had burned approximately 600 acres. While two firefighters sustained injuries, fortunately, there was no damage to residential buildings.
The firefighting efforts involved 600 firefighters from over 80 fire departments, along with support from various federal, state, and local agencies. National Guard helicopters provided air support, and additional resources were mobilized to combat the fires.
Although the situation improved by Sunday, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services cautioned about the ongoing risk due to dry and windy conditions in Suffolk County. Governor Hochul imposed a burn ban in Long Island, New York City, and parts of the Hudson Valley to mitigate the fire hazard. The ban will remain in effect until the annual statewide ban on residential brush burning comes into force on March 16.
Hochul commended the collaborative efforts in tackling the wildfires and emphasized the need for continued vigilance. The governor’s office disclosed that state National Guard helicopters had conducted numerous water drops to aid firefighting operations.
As investigations into the cause of the fires continue, authorities suspect that high winds may have contributed to the spread of the blazes. Despite significant progress in containing the fires, the persistent threat of wildfires underscores the importance of remaining cautious and prepared.
Brush fire erupts at nature reserve causing highway closures and temporary evacuations for National Guard members. Officials fear the winds could drive the fire towards populated areas, reminiscent of the destructive California wildfires. Governor Hochul emphasizes the need for proactive prevention measures to avert a similar disaster. Budget cuts at the National Fire Academy are concerning, potentially impacting the training of critical first responders during the escalating wildfire crisis in Suffolk County, Long Island.
