A state of emergency has been declared in Long Island, New York, following the outbreak of multiple wildfires that have prompted evacuations in several nearby towns. The fires began on Saturday in areas including Center Moriches, East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton, rapidly spreading due to strong winds and dry conditions. Over 80 fire departments and 20 emergency medical service agencies have been mobilized to combat the blazes, with the National Guard deploying helicopters to provide aerial support.
Governor Kathy Hochul has emphasized that the situation remains critical, with the fires threatening residential areas, a chemical factory, and an Amazon warehouse. Evacuations have been ordered in certain regions, particularly near Francis S. Gabreski Airport, which has also been evacuated as a precautionary measure. Major highways, including the main access road to the Hamptons, have been closed due to the fires.
Residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and adhere to evacuation orders and safety guidelines issued by authorities. The combination of strong winds and low humidity continues to pose challenges to containment efforts, and the situation is being closely monitored as firefighting operations proceed.