Brush fires have been ignited in Long Island and near Brooklyn due to strong winds in New York creating an elevated risk of fire spread. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Long Island’s Suffolk County, where four wildfires broke out. Two people were injured, and structures were damaged, including commercial buildings. In Southampton, the fires were exacerbated by gusty winds, dry conditions, and damage caused by a Southern Pine Beetle infestation. The New York National Guard and state agencies are assisting firefighters on the ground.
In Brooklyn, a fire in Gerritsen Beach was under control by early evening, with no reported injuries. The New York State Department of Transportation closed portions of Sunrise Highway due to the fires, while wind advisories were in effect for the region through Saturday night.
The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement warning of low humidity and strong winds in southeastern New York, northern New Jersey, and southern Connecticut, which could result in quickly spreading fires. Approximately 7 million people in New England are under wind advisories. The cause of the fires is unknown, but caution is advised with potential ignition sources such as machinery, cigarettes, and matches. There have been no injuries reported.
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