Brush fires have broken out in Long Island and near Brooklyn due to strong winds in New York, creating an elevated risk of fire spread, according to the National Weather Service. The region impacted by the fire risk includes Long Island and all five boroughs of New York City. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Long Island’s Suffolk County due to brush fires in the Pine Barrens.
New York National Guard helicopter crews have been assigned to help firefighters on the ground, with state agencies also responding to the fires. Multiple wildfires have been reported in Suffolk County, with injuries sustained and structures damaged. The situation has been exacerbated by gusty winds, dry conditions, and beetle infestation in the area.
In Brooklyn, a fire in Gerritsen Beach was under control by early evening, with no reported injuries. Motorists have been advised to avoid certain areas due to fire-related closures. The elevated fire risk is expected to last through at least 7 p.m., with gusty winds and dry conditions continuing into the week.
The cause of the fires is unknown at this time, and there have been no reports of injuries. The weather service has warned of the potential for fires to spread quickly and advised caution in handling any potential ignition sources. Wind advisories are in place in New England, and millions of people are under wind alerts in cities like Boston and Albany.
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