State of Emergency Declared in New York as Brush Fires Rage on Long Island

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a state of emergency on Saturday in response to escalating brush fires on Long Island. Fire crews have been working tirelessly to control the flames that have spread through several communities.

Fires Stretch Across Suffolk County

The first blaze ignited around 1 p.m. in Center Moriches, Suffolk County. It quickly spread, causing secondary fires in East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton. Thankfully, the fires in Center Moriches, East Moriches, and Eastport have been successfully extinguished. However, the Westhampton fire remains a concern, currently 50% contained.

Coordinated Emergency Response

The declaration of emergency applies specifically to Suffolk County. In light of the situation, the New York National Guard has deployed four helicopters for water drops, while a C-130 aircraft assists with aerial monitoring. Multiple state agencies, including the Office of Emergency Management and the Department of Environmental Conservation, are engaged in supporting firefighting efforts.

These agencies are also utilizing drones, traffic management protocols, and additional personnel to manage the crisis more effectively. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of rapid resource deployment and coordination among all agencies involved.

Governor Hochul’s Statement

In her public statement, Governor Hochul remarked, “We are deploying resources as quickly as possible, and I have mobilized our agencies, the National Guard, and the State Police to provide air and ground support to ensure we keep our Long Islanders safe.” She further added, “I’ve declared a state of emergency to secure resources immediately. This is an evolving situation, and air quality is a concern — New Yorkers need to monitor the latest emergency alerts and prepare to evacuate if necessary.”

Health Precautions for Residents

To assist those affected, Hochul announced that 100,000 N95 masks would be sent to the impacted areas on Sunday morning. This step aims to mitigate the potential health risks posed by smoke and poor air quality.

Firefighter Injuries and Structural Damage

During the firefighting efforts, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine reported that one firefighter sustained burns to the face and was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital. Fortunately, officials have stated that he is recovering well.

Additionally, two commercial buildings sustained damage due to the flames, as indicated by Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Rudy Sunderman.

Preparedness for Local Residents

While residents are currently not in immediate danger from the fires, officials urge those in nearby areas to stay vigilant and prepared for possible evacuations. The unpredictable nature of wildfires necessitates readiness, especially as conditions can change rapidly.

Fire Causes and Weather Conditions

The exact cause of the initial fire remains undetermined. However, officials believe that strong winds have facilitated its spread significantly. Forecasts predict isolated wind gusts reaching up to 40 miles per hour continuing through Sunday evening. Gusts may subside overnight, but are expected to intensify again on Sunday morning.

Continued Risk of Wildfires

Combining strong winds of 30 to 40 mph with dry fuels and low humidity levels creates a heightened risk of wildfire activity throughout the weekend. However, meteorological forecasts suggest a slight increase in humidity and a decrease in wind speeds could lessen this wildfire threat heading into the following week.

Cautious Outlook Ahead

As the situation develops, it is crucial for residents to remain informed and prepared. Continuous updates from local authorities will provide guidance on safety measures and evacuation plans as necessary.