A series of fast-moving wildfires tore through New York’s Long Island on Saturday, forcing evacuations, shutting down a major highway, and prompting Gov. Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency. The blazes, driven by strong winds and dry conditions, ignited panic among residents as thick plumes of black smoke filled the skies.
Fire Locations and Damage
The wildfires broke out in Center Moriches, East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton, engulfing large parts of Long Island’s East End. According to officials, three of the four fires were fully contained, while the Westhampton fire remained only 50% contained by Saturday evening.
Key Damage Reports:
Two commercial buildings sustained partial burns
One firefighter was airlifted to a hospital with facial burns
Homes were not directly impacted, but neighborhoods were under high threat
“Our biggest problem is the wind. It is driving this fire,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, highlighting the difficulty in containing the flames.
State of Emergency & Evacuations
Gov. Hochul confirmed that state agencies, local law enforcement, and the National Guard were actively responding to the escalating crisis in the Pine Barrens, a wooded region with many residential areas.
Key Updates from Gov. Hochul:
- Evacuations underway in Westhampton, with more possible
- Homes, an Amazon warehouse, and a chemical factory at risk
- National Guard helicopters deployed for aerial firefighting
“This is still out of control at this moment,” Hochul told News 12 Long Island, emphasizing the rapid spread of flames.
Viral Videos Capture the Intensity
Shocking videos of the wildfire quickly went viral on social media, showing flames shooting high into the air and dense smoke clouds blanketing roads.
What People Are Saying Online:
- A Long Island resident posted, “MASSIVE FIRE … It’s extremely windy today, and that area is VERY dry. Not a good place for a fire.”
- Another video, allegedly filmed from the air, showed firefighters battling flames, with reports that over 70 fire departments were on the scene.
Mint could not independently verify these videos.
Public Safety Measures & Highway Closure
To contain the fire and prevent further devastation:
Air National Guard helicopters dropped water on the flames
Sunrise Highway was partially shut down to protect travelers
Southampton officials banned recreational fires due to the fire risk
According to NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System, satellite data indicated the fire stretched approximately 2.5 miles (3 kilometers) along Sunrise Highway, a key route to the Hamptons.
Military Base Evacuated
The wildfires reached close proximity to Francis S. Gabreski Airport, where the National Guard operates. As a precaution, military personnel were evacuated at 1:45 p.m., according to spokesperson Cheran Cambell.
Ongoing Efforts to Control the Blaze
Gov. Hochul reassured the public, stating:
“Public safety is my top priority, and I’m committed to doing everything possible to keep Long Islanders safe.”
Firefighters and emergency teams are working around the clock to contain the flames as officials assess damage and prevent further spread.
