Brush Fire in Long Island’s Pine Barrens: Current Status and Historical Context

LONG ISLAND – A significant brush fire has erupted in the Pine Barrens on Long Island, drawing the attention of emergency response teams as of Saturday afternoon. Fire officials report that the blaze is advancing southeast, largely exacerbated by strong winds in the area.

Emergency Response and Containment Efforts

As of 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, the fire has been approximately 50% contained in the Westhampton area. In total, over 90 fire and emergency medical services departments are actively engaged in combating the flames, which remain a danger due to ongoing wind conditions.

County Executive Ed Romaine highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “With this kind of wind, even a spark could ignite it.” He reiterated the commitment of local officials to prevent a recurrence of the 1995 Sunrise Fire that devastated the region. Firefighters are particularly cautious of conditions similar to that historical event, where flames jumped over highways and created unpredictable hazards.

Current Situation and Safety Measures

As firefighting efforts continue, County 31 and Sunrise Highway have been closed to facilitate access for first responders. One firefighter has sustained facial burns and is currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. Authorities have imposed a burn ban and declared a State of Emergency for Long Island, which is currently facing an elevated risk of fire.

Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that state agencies are closely collaborating with local officials to secure the necessary resources to protect the community. “We are in close communication with local partners on Long Island to coordinate assistance,” she posted on social media.

Historical Context: The Sunrise Fire of 1995

This brush fire has prompted reflections on the infamous Sunrise Fire of 1995, which consumed nearly 12 square miles of the Pine Barrens and led to the evacuation of large areas in Westhampton and Westhampton Beach. The 1995 incident is remembered for its extensive damage and the mobilization of firefighting units from across New York State.

The Sunrise Fire serves as a benchmark for current firefighting strategies in the area. It took four days to control and had lasting implications for emergency response protocols.

Public Safety Advisory

Authorities are urging residents to avoid the affected areas as conditions remain fluid. Local radar indicates the potential for smoke plumes to spread further due to northwest winds driving the smoke offshore. The Air National Guard Base and Suffolk Community College have been evacuated as a precaution.

For ongoing updates on the situation, residents are encouraged to follow local news outlets and official government communications.