Towns and communities across Long Island, New York, remained on high alert Saturday as multiple brush fires spread thick smoke throughout the region. In response to the growing emergency, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Suffolk County, warning that gusty conditions were expected to persist through Sunday evening.
The first fire ignited around 1 p.m., with three additional fires breaking out later in the day, according to Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. Officials reported that by the afternoon, the fires had spread across an area approximately two miles long and two and a half miles wide, posing a significant threat to local communities.
In an effort to contain the flames, the New York National Guard deployed multiple Black Hawk helicopters equipped with 660-gallon water buckets. Additional state resources were also mobilized, and over 30 fire companies were actively engaged in firefighting efforts. Due to the escalating danger, the Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base was evacuated as a precaution.
Governor Hochul assured residents that resources were being deployed as quickly as possible, with the National Guard and State Police providing both air and ground support to protect communities. She urged those living in affected areas to remain vigilant, monitor emergency alerts, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
By Saturday evening, officials reported that the Westhampton fire was approximately 80% contained, though firefighting efforts were expected to continue through the night. Two commercial structures sustained damage, and a firefighter suffered a second-degree burn to his face. He was airlifted to Stonybrook Hospital for treatment.
As firefighters worked to control the blazes, several roads and highways, including Sunrise Highway, were closed to ensure public safety. Local authorities in Southampton issued an advisory urging residents to avoid any outdoor recreational fires over the next 24 hours due to strong winds and an increased risk of fire spread.
Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services noted that conditions on Saturday contributed to the rapid spread of the fires, with wind speeds ranging from 30 to 35 miles per hour and low humidity levels creating a heightened fire risk.
