Raging fires in Long Island trigger state emergency – What you need to know

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in Suffolk County as multiple Long Island brush fires erupted on Saturday, forcing evacuations and shutting down major roads. Gusty winds and dry conditions have fueled the fast-moving fires, with authorities warning that the situation remains volatile.

The New York National Guard, alongside more than 30 fire companies, has been deployed to combat the blazes, which have already consumed thousands of acres. Hochul has mobilized emergency resources, including Black Hawk helicopters performing aerial water drops and state police drones monitoring fire progression. Officials have urged residents to stay alert for emergency updates and prepare for potential evacuations.

Fires Spread Rapidly, Forcing Evacuations Near Air Base

The first fire ignited around 1 p.m. on Saturday, with three additional fires breaking out later in the day, according to Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. The flames quickly spread, spanning a two-mile-long and two-and-a-half-mile-wide area.

As a precaution, the Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base was evacuated, with authorities citing concerns about rapid fire spread and air quality risks. Officials confirmed that two commercial structures sustained damage, and a firefighter suffered a second-degree burn to his face, requiring airlift transport to Stony Brook Hospital.

New York National Guard Deploys Helicopters For Water Drops

Governor Hochul emphasized that resources were being deployed as swiftly as possible. The New York National Guard mobilized four helicopters, including three UH-60M Black Hawks and an HH-60 W Jolly Green II, which have been conducting aerial water drops using 660-gallon firefighting buckets.

“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.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has also activated the State Emergency Operations Center, coordinating the response with local agencies.

Road Closures And Fire Warnings In Effect

Officials have closed multiple roads, including Sunrise Highway, as firefighters work to contain the flames. Residents in the town of Southampton have been advised to avoid outdoor recreational fires due to the high wildfire risk caused by low humidity and winds exceeding 30 mph.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has warned that wind gusts could reach 40 mph on Sunday, further complicating firefighting efforts. DEC forest rangers have been deployed to assist in containment operations, while state officials urged residents to take fire safety precautions.

Emergency Response And Air Quality Concerns

Authorities have raised concerns about air quality in affected areas. The New York State Air Quality Index (AQI) has flagged parts of Suffolk County for potential health risks due to heavy smoke exposure. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor air pollution.

Health officials have also recommended wearing N95 or KN95 masks for those who must be outdoors, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.

Firefighters Work Overnight As Containment Efforts Continue

As of Saturday evening, the Westhampton fire was 80% contained, but firefighting operations were expected to continue overnight. Officials said containment efforts would focus on stopping the spread of flames toward residential areas and protecting critical infrastructure.

Fire crews have activated the New York Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan, allowing departments from across the state to send additional personnel and equipment.

Fire Season Concerns Grow As Dry Weather Persists

The outbreak of Long Island brush fires has raised broader concerns about New York’s wildfire season, with state officials reminding residents that the annual residential brush burning ban goes into effect on March 16.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation has placed park police and emergency personnel on high alert at Wildwood, Brookhaven, Hither Hills, and Napeague State Parks due to fire risks.

With winds expected to remain strong into Sunday, authorities stress that residents should remain vigilant, monitor emergency alerts, and be prepared for further evacuations if conditions worsen.