Brush Fires Ravage Long Island, Prompting Evacuations and State of Emergency
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A series of fast-moving brush fires swept through Long Island on Saturday, March 8, prompting New York Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency as firefighters worked to contain the blazes.
“I am issuing a State of Emergency as Suffolk County fights brush fires in the Pine Barrens,” Hochul announced on X. “We have @NationalGuardNY helicopters providing air support, and multiple state agencies are on the ground.”
The fires, which ignited around 1:00 p.m. in Center Moriches, quickly spread to East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton, fueled by strong winds, according to News 12. By 8:00 p.m., the fire in Westhampton was reported to be 80% contained, while three other fires had been extinguished.
Massive Response Effort
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine described the fires as stretching “two and a half miles long and two and a half miles wide” at their peak. Nearly 80 fire departments and 20 EMS agencies responded to combat the flames.
One firefighter suffered second-degree burns to his face and was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital, but no other major injuries have been reported.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Evacuations were ordered in parts of Westhampton, and Francis S. Gabreski Airport was temporarily cleared as a precaution. Several highways were closed due to the fires, though some reopened after containment efforts Saturday evening.
Challenges in Containment
The New York National Guard assisted by dropping water over the affected areas, though high winds complicated firefighting efforts. Videos posted online showed towering flames and thick smoke engulfing roadsides.
Governor Hochul emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “This is still out of control at this moment. Our main focus has been fire suppression and resource development.”
Officials continue to monitor the situation, and Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services have been contacted for further updates.