Brush Fires Rage on Long Island as State of Emergency Declared
Fast-moving brush fires in Long Island, New York prompted a state of emergency and evacuations as winds fueled flames, threatening communities and infrastructure.
The fires are burning in a nature preserve, but it would not take much for the fires to jump outside that area and head toward populated areas.
New York governor declares emergency as brush fires burn in Long Island
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Fast-moving brush fires burned through a large swath of land on New York's Long Island on Saturday fanned by high winds, spewing thick gray smoke into the sky and prompting the evacuation of a military base and the closure of a major highway.
Wind-driven brush fire on New York's Long Island 50% contained, one firefighter injured
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Kathy Hochul, the state governor, declared a state of emergency and said state agencies were responding to the fires around the Pine Barrens, a wooded area that is home to commuter towns east of New York City.
Fires rage on Long Island as New York governor declares state of emergency
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New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency.
Wildfires break out on Long Island, NY Gov. Kathy Hochul declares state of emergency
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The historic wildfires in California in January destroyed over 50,000 acres and led to the deaths of at least 28 people, according to California authorities.
New York wildfires: What to know as evacuations underway
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Summary
A series of brush fires broke out on Long Island, New York, on March 8, 2025, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency. The fires, exacerbated by strong winds, affected areas near Westhampton, endangering nearby structures including a chemical factory and an Amazon warehouse. One firefighter sustained injuries, and precautions led to the evacuation of a military base. Efforts to contain the fires are ongoing, with significant resources deployed, as officials remain vigilant against the threat posed by high winds and dry conditions. The situation is developing, with further evacuations possible.
Perspectives
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in response to brush fires fueled by strong winds on Long Island, prompting evacuations and highway closures.
Fire crews have successfully contained most of the fires, but one remains uncontrolled, posing risks to nearby structures, including a military base and commercial buildings.
Challenging weather conditions, including high winds and dry environments, are exacerbating the fire risk, reminiscent of previous devastating wildfires in the region.