Towns and communities across Long Island, New York, remained on high alert Saturday as multiple brush fires sent thick smoke into the air, prompting swift emergency response efforts.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Suffolk County, warning residents of gusty conditions expected to last through Sunday evening that could further fuel the flames.
Multiple Fires Ignite Amid Dry and Windy Conditions
The first fire broke out around 1 p.m. Saturday, with three additional fires erupting throughout the day, according to Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. Officials reported that the affected area spanned approximately two miles long and two and a half miles wide.
Firefighters battled the blazes under difficult conditions, with wind speeds reaching 30-35 miles per hour and low humidity, increasing the risk of fire spread.
National Guard Deployed to Combat the Fires
To assist in containment efforts, Gov. Hochul mobilized the New York National Guard, deploying multiple Black Hawk helicopters equipped with 660-gallon water buckets to douse the flames from the air. Additional state resources, including ground and aerial support, were also activated.
The Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base was evacuated as a precaution, according to the governor’s office.
“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,” Hochul stated.
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Fire Containments and Their Impact on Residents
By Saturday evening, the Westhampton fire was 80% contained, but firefighting operations were expected to continue through the night, according to Suffolk County Director of Communications Michael Martino.
The fires have already caused significant damage, with two commercial structures affected and one firefighter suffering second-degree burns to his face. The injured firefighter was airlifted to Stony Brook Hospital for treatment.
Several local roads and highways, including Sunrise Highway, were temporarily closed as emergency crews worked to control the flames.
Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant
Authorities in Southampton urged residents to avoid any outdoor recreational fires for the next 24 hours, citing high winds and the continued risk of wildfire spread.
The Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services warned that the combination of low humidity and strong winds posed an elevated fire risk across the region.
With the situation still evolving, Gov. Hochul advised residents to stay alert for emergency notifications and be prepared for possible evacuations.
