Over 400 Fire Departments Battle Significant Wildfires Across the Northeast

The Northeast is grappling with a series of significant wildfires fueled by prolonged drought and unseasonably warm weather. Fortunately, rain is on the way, helping contain ongoing fires.

Over 400 fire departments and 1,300 personnel have been mobilized across the region to combat the flames and safeguard communities in one of the worst wildfire seasons the Northeast has faced in recent years.

A few notable wildfires include the Jennings Creek Fire on the New York-New Jersey border, which has burned over 5,000 acres and is now 90% contained. Meanwhile, Brooklyn’s Prospect Park has experienced multiple fires, highlighting urban wildfire risks.

In New Jersey, significant blazes include a 52-acre fire in Marlton linked to arson, with other incidents in Hainesport and Lakewood. Massachusetts has also seen elevated fire risks, with brush fires and an arson arrest in Attleboro.

In New York State, six active wildfires have burned over 6,000 acres, including the Jennings Creek/Sterling Forest State Park fire. The New York National Guard has been instrumental, deploying helicopters to deliver over 500,000 gallons of water on fires in Orange County since November 11.

Rainfall of up to 2 inches is forecast across parts of the Northeast, potentially alleviating some drought and fire conditions. In the meantime, officials urge residents to conserve water and comply with burn bans to reduce fire risks. See the link below for the latest Northeast weather update.