LONG ISLAND – A significant brush fire is currently affecting areas of the Pine Barrens on Long Island as of Saturday afternoon.
Fire Eruption and Containment Efforts
Firefighters have been actively engaged in combating the blaze, which is advancing southeast with alarming speed, primarily exacerbated by strong winds in the region. By 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, officials reported that the fire was approximately 50 percent contained in the Westhampton area, with all other regional fires now extinguished.
A Historical Precedent
County Executive Ed Romaine emphasized the commitment of authorities to prevent a recurrence of the devastating Sunrise Fire of 1995. That fire, which was the largest in New York state in nearly a century, took four days to control and left a lasting impact on firefighting strategies in the area.
“With this kind of wind, even a spark could ignite it.”
Current Fire Conditions and Safety Measures
The winds are anticipated to sustain the fire for several hours, or potentially days. A comprehensive response has mobilized 90 departments, including emergency medical services and firefighting teams, to assess and manage the situation effectively. Authorities have enacted a burn ban and declared a State of Emergency as Long Island faces elevated fire risks.
Injury and Evacuations
Unfortunately, one firefighter sustained burns to the face and has been transported to a local hospital for treatment. As a precautionary measure, County 31 and Sunrise Highway have been closed to facilitate the movement of first responders.
The Air National Guard Base has been evacuated, along with Suffolk Community College, reflecting the seriousness of the current fire risk. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to stay clear of affected areas as conditions may continue to change rapidly.
State Support and Resources
In response to the emergency, New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that state agencies are actively supporting local efforts. “We are in close communication with local partners on Long Island to coordinate assistance and ensure they have the resources needed to protect their communities,” she stated in a recent post on X.
To aid in extinguishing the flames, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has employed aerial resources, using a bambi bucket for strategic water drops near the affected areas.
Weather Conditions Impact
The National Weather Service has reported smoke plumes being pushed offshore due to northwest winds, complicating the firefighting efforts. Residents are reminded to stay updated on the fire situation and adhere to safety directives issued by authorities.
Understanding the Sunrise Fire of 1995
For context, the Sunrise Fire of 1995 was a catastrophic series of fires that devastated nearly 12 square miles of the Pine Barrens, necessitating evacuations and an extensive firefighting response from across New York and beyond. It remains a pivotal reference point for current fire management strategies in the region.
