Brush fires have broken out in Long Island and near Brooklyn due to strong winds in New York increasing the risk of fire spread, according to the National Weather Service. The elevated risk of fire spread is due to low humidity and strong winds gusting up to 35 mph. Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Long Island’s Suffolk County to address the brush fires in the Pine Barrens.
Multiple fires have occurred in Suffolk County, with one 2 miles long and over 2 miles wide. Two people sustained injuries, including a firefighter with second-degree burns on his face. Fires have damaged structures in the area. Maria Z. Moore, town supervisor of Southampton, declared a state of emergency due to the fires fueled by dry conditions and Southern Pine Beetle infestation.
In Brooklyn, a fire in Gerritsen Beach was brought under control by early evening with no reported injuries. Strong winds in the region led to the closure of portions of Eastbound Sunrise Highway NY27. Around 7 million people in New England, including Boston and Albany, are under wind alerts.
The cause of the fires is unknown, and there have been no reports of injuries. State resources, including New York National Guard helicopter crews, have been deployed to help with firefighting efforts. Firefighters from various departments have been called in for mutual aid to assist with the ongoing fires. The weather service has cautioned against potential ignition sources due to the strong winds and dry conditions.
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