New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency due to several brush fires that erupted in Long Island on Saturday. The fires are primarily affecting Suffolk County, particularly in the Pine Barrens area.
In a post on social media, Hochul stated that the New York National Guard has been deployed with helicopters to provide air support for firefighting efforts. She mentioned that various state agencies are also on the ground assisting with the situation. Hochul communicated with Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine, offering state resources to help combat the fires.
Romaine confirmed that the county is closely collaborating with the town of Southampton in their firefighting efforts. He noted that the National Guard has been conducting water drops to help control the flames. As part of the response, several miles of Sunrise Highway have been closed due to the fires.
Videos shared online show thick smoke billowing across the sky as multiple wildfires break out near Riverhead and East Hampton. The largest fire, as of early Saturday evening, is burning near Gabreski Airport in Westhampton. Romaine indicated that the fires are still not under control and may take several hours, if not longer, to manage.
Authorities are urging residents to stay safe and avoid the affected areas as they work to contain the fires. The situation remains fluid, and updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available.