State of Emergency in New York Amidst Long Island Brush Fires

Emergency crews tackled fast-spreading brush fires driven by high winds on Long Island, New York, causing thick plumes of smoke and prompting critical evacuations.

On Saturday, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency as wildfires threatened areas within the Pine Barrens. High-speed winds exacerbated the situation, raising concerns for properties, including residential homes, a chemical plant, and an Amazon distribution center.

Evacuation and Safety Measures

Evacuation orders were given for locations including a military base, with authorities warning of potential further relocations should the fires spread.

Three out of four fires were reportedly under control; however, flames in Westhampton were only partially managed, impacting business infrastructure but sparing residential properties.

A firefighter suffered facial burns and required hospitalization, highlighting the dangers faced by responders battling the blazes, which were significantly fueled by strong winds, according to Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.

Efforts and Observations

Aerial footage and online media depicted intense flames and smoke towers soaring above roadways. Helicopters from the Air National Guard helped suppress the fires by releasing water from above.

Residents of Southampton received guidance to refrain from lighting any outdoor fires to mitigate further risks.

Governor Hochul asserted her focus on public safety and endorsed ongoing collaborative efforts with local forces and the National Guard to manage the crisis.

Scope and Impact

Though Governor Hochul did not provide specific dimensions for the fire’s reach, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported smoke and flames extending approximately 2.5 miles along Sunrise Highway.

This section of highway—a critical access point to Eastern Long Island—was closed as police efforts focused on maintaining safety and assisting evacuation procedures.

Near the fires' proximity was Francis S. Gabreski Airport, from which strategic operations with helicopters commenced. Some damage occurred to structures adjacent to the airport.

Military personnel from the base nearby were relocated as a precaution from approximately 1:45 p.m., as confirmed by a spokesperson.