New York experienced a frightening scene on Saturday as fast-moving brush fires tore through a large portion of Long Island. Fueled by powerful winds, these fires spewed gray smoke and caused the evacuation of a military base and the closure of a major highway. The situation was dire, but thanks to the swift response of officials and the bravery of firefighters, the fires were eventually brought under control.
According to officials, three of the four fires were fully contained while the fourth, in Westhampton, was 50% contained. While two commercial buildings were partially burned, thankfully no homes were in danger. However, one firefighter did sustain burns to the face and was flown to a hospital for treatment.
The main challenge faced by officials was the strong wind, which was driving the fire and making it difficult to contain. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine stated, “Our biggest problem is the wind. It is driving this fire.” The situation was so severe that New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency and mobilized state agencies to respond to the fires.
In an interview with Long Island TV station News 12, Governor Hochul shared her concerns, saying, “This is still out of control at this moment. We’re seeing people having to be evacuated from the Westhampton area.” She also warned that more evacuations may be necessary as the fires continued to spread.
Hochul also expressed worry for the safety of homes, a chemical factory, and an Amazon warehouse in the path of the fires. Videos shared on social media depicted flames shooting into the air and thick columns of black smoke rising above roads. The situation was so grave that Air National Guard helicopters were called in to drop water on the flames.
In response to the escalating situation, the Town of Southampton issued a warning against starting recreational fires due to the high risk of wildfires. This precaution was taken around the same time that videos of the fires began circulating on social media.
Governor Hochul’s office released a statement saying that the National Guard was providing support by helicopter and working closely with local law enforcement. “Public safety is my top priority, and I’m committed to doing everything possible to keep Long Islanders safe,” Hochul stated.
During her interview with News 12, Hochul refrained from estimating the extent of the fires, simply stating that they were growing at an alarming rate. According to satellite data from NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System, the flames and smoke were stretching approximately 3 kilometers (2.5 miles) along Sunrise Highway.
In response to the danger posed by the fires, police closed a section of the highway, which is a major route to the East End of Long Island. The fires were raging near the Francis S. Gabreski Airport, where the National Guard launched helicopters to aid in the firefighting efforts. One of the partially burned commercial buildings was located near the airport.
As a precautionary measure, personnel at the base began evacuating around 1:45 p.m., according to spokesman Cheran Cambell. The quick response of officials and the coordinated efforts of the National Guard, law enforcement, and firefighters were crucial in containing the fires and protecting the community.
Despite the intensity of the situation, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities. Thanks to the tireless efforts of all involved, the fires were eventually brought under control. Governor Hochul and other officials expressed their gratitude for the bravery and dedication of the first responders, and their commitment to ensuring the safety of the people of Long Island.
In the face of a natural disaster, it is heartening to see how swiftly and effectively officials and emergency responders come together to protect the community. Their quick response and coordinated efforts are a testament to their commitment to public safety. As we move forward, let us continue to support and appreciate the tireless efforts of those who work to keep us safe.
