New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency on Saturday as crews battled growing brush fires on Long Island.
The first fire ignited around 1 p.m. in Center Moriches, Suffolk County, spreading quickly to East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton. While the flames have been extinguished in Center Moriches, East Moriches, and Eastport, the fire in Westhampton is now reported to be about 50% contained.
The governor’s state of emergency solely encompasses Suffolk County.
In response to the escalating situation, the state National Guard has deployed four helicopters for water drops and a C-130 aircraft to assist in aerial surveillance, according to the governor’s office. A collective effort from numerous state agencies, including the use of drones and traffic management units, is underway.
The state’s Office of Emergency Management is collaborating with several agencies, including the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the Department of Transportation, and the New York State Police. This coordinated response highlights the community-oriented spirit of support and resilience.
In a poignant statement, Hochul expressed, “We are deploying resources as quickly as possible. I have mobilized our agencies, the National Guard, and the State Police to provide both aerial and ground support to ensure the safety of our Long Islanders.” Her strong leadership resonates amidst the anxious atmosphere.
“This is an evolving situation, and air quality is a concern,” she continued. “New Yorkers need to monitor the latest emergency alerts and prepare to evacuate if necessary.” To assist residents, 100,000 N95 masks are set to arrive in the affected area on Sunday morning.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine reported during a press conference that one firefighter has sustained facial burns and is currently receiving treatment at Stony Brook University Hospital, where he is reportedly recuperating well, according to CBS News. The flames have also led to damage of two commercial buildings, as noted by Suffolk County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services Commissioner Rudy Sunderman.
Residents remain safe, yet officials have urged those nearby to stay vigilant and prepared for possible evacuations. The threat of fire remains evident, and even in the absence of immediate danger, a sense of anxiety lingers in the air.
The origin of the initial blaze remains uncertain, but officials suspect that the relentless winds have played a substantial role in its expansion. Current forecasts predict isolated gusts of wind reaching up to 40 miles per hour through the evening—a reminder of nature’s unpredictable power. Gusts are anticipated to fluctuate overnight only to resurge by Sunday morning.
The combination of winds ranging from 30 to 40 mph, coupled with dry fuel and low humidity levels, poses a continual risk of wildfire outbreak throughout the weekend, as per CBS News. However, a slight uptick in humidity along with a decrease in wind speeds is expected to mitigate the wildfire threat for the upcoming week.
As local businesses, like Center Moriches’ own The Coffee Bean, prepare for potential disruptions, they showcase the community’s resilience. The simple act of sharing a cup of coffee can become a moment of solace amid uncertainty. As Long Islanders reflect on their collective strength, they also foster a deep sense of connection, collectively bracing for the unforeseen challenges that may lie ahead.
