Firefighters in New York successfully contained a brush fire in a wooded area of Long Island on Sunday amidst concerns of high wind gusts that could fuel more fires. Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency following four separate fires in Long Island’s Pine Barrens region, leading to highway closures and evacuations of a military base. By Sunday, all visible flames had been extinguished, with crews focusing on containing the remaining fire in Westhampton. Authorities remained vigilant due to expected wind gusts up to 30 mph. Over 80 volunteer fire departments battled the blaze, which scorched about 600 acres. Two firefighters were treated for injuries. The cause of the fire was under investigation, with detectives and drones being used to gather information. While arson was being looked into, there was no immediate evidence suggesting foul play. Damage to two commercial structures was reported. Additionally, a small brush fire along Sunrise Highway was being monitored with no visible flames as of Sunday morning.
