Major Wildfires Erupt in Long Island, New York: State of Emergency Declared

Major wildfires have erupted in Long Island, New York, fueled by strong winds and low humidity, affecting multiple regions without fatalities but some reported injuries. Governor Hochul has declared a state of emergency and mobilized resources to combat the ongoing fire.

Wildfires erupted in Long Island, New York, last evening, exacerbated by strong winds, as reported by the National Weather Service. The affected regions encompass southeastern New York, northern New Jersey, southern Connecticut, Long Island, and all five boroughs of New York City. Fortunately, there have been no fatalities, although some injuries have been documented.

During a press conference, the Suffolk County Executive mentioned that the county witnessed four wildfires, three of which are now fully contained. The remaining fire in Westhampton is still active, with containment efforts reaching 50%. The largest fire extends two miles in length and over one mile in width.

The National Weather Service issued a special warning regarding the current conditions in New York City and Long Island. Factors contributing to the rapid spread of the fires include low relative humidity at 30% and strong northwest winds measuring 30 to 35 miles per hour.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Suffolk County due to the wildfires. In a separate statement, she assured that all necessary resources and support have been allocated to the Suffolk County Executive. Additionally, helicopter crews from the New York National Guard have been deployed to assist ground firefighters, with state agencies actively responding to the crisis.

In summary, wildfires in Long Island have rapidly expanded due to strong winds and low humidity. While most fires are contained, one remains active, prompting a state of emergency declaration by Governor Hochul. The swift response from local and state authorities emphasizes their commitment to managing the situation effectively, ensuring the safety of residents and affected areas.

Original Source: www.jordannews.jo