Multiple wildfires broke out in a wooded area of Long Island near Westhampton, New York on Saturday afternoon, leading to a state of emergency declaration by Southhampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore. Dry weather, low humidity, and a Southern Pine Beetle infestation have exacerbated the conditions, causing a heightened risk of dangerous wildfires. The fires closed a portion of the Sunrise Highway and a service road, with the cause and size of the fires still unclear at this time.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine stated that Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services were coordinating the response to three major brush fires, with the New York National Guard providing air support and coordinating with local law enforcement. The National Weather Service had warned of elevated fire risk earlier in the day, citing low humidity and strong wind gusts as factors that could lead to rapid fire spread.
Officials urged extreme caution with any potential ignition sources such as machinery, cigarettes, and matches, as any fires could quickly escalate. The situation is still developing, and updates are expected to be provided as more information becomes available.
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