Firefighters on Long Island in New York were working to contain a wind-driven brush fire in the Pine Barrens on Sunday. This came after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency to prevent a situation similar to the recent wildfires in Southern California. The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services issued warnings about wind gusts up to 40 mph, making firefighting efforts more challenging. There was heightened wildfire risk in several areas due to dry and windy conditions.
Governor Hochul mentioned that she had spoken with Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and offered state resources. National Guard helicopters were providing air support, and multiple state agencies were involved in the operation. At least four brush fires had ignited in the East End area of Long Island on Saturday, with most being extinguished except for one near Westhampton, which was 80% contained.
County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services were leading the response involving around 80 agencies. Romaine stated that efforts were made to prevent the fire from spreading, although it was not fully under control. An arson investigation was initiated, with authorities checking cameras and investigating evidence to determine if the fires were deliberately set.
While the Palisades and Eaton fires in California had been fully contained, the Long Island fires had not led to evacuations yet. A firefighter sustained burns to his face, and two buildings were damaged. Highway closures were in effect, and the situation could evolve based on wind conditions. Governor Hochul emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent the wildfires from reaching populated areas, drawing on the devastation caused by recent California wildfires.
Suffolk County, which includes central and eastern Long Island, was coordinating closely with local authorities and multiple police agencies to manage the situation. A rescue helicopter was seen picking up water at Wild Wood Lake in Westhampton. The governor stressed the importance of being vigilant and taking preventive actions to avert further damage from the fires.
