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The fire, which started around 1 p.m. in Center Moriches, spread rapidly due to 35 mph winds, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said at a Saturday evening news conference. The flames quickly moved to East Moriches, Eastport, and then Westhampton, igniting a massive blaze just north of Gabreski Airport, he said.
On Saturday, all eastbound lanes of Sunrise Highway were closed between Exits 62 and 64, the NY Times reports citing NYSP. The southbound lanes of County Road 31 were closed as well, the times added citing Southampton police.
The last of the four wildfires appeared to be fully contained as of Sunday morning, March 9, but officials remain cautious about lingering hot spots, according to the New York Post.
By Saturday night, the final blaze was 80% contained, and as of Sunday morning, it had reached full containment, said Mike Martino, spokesman for Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, to The Post. However, fire crews continue to monitor smaller smoldering areas to prevent any potential flare-ups, Martino told the outlet.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Saturday evening that she was issuing a State of Emergency as Suffolk County continues to battle brush fires in the Pine Barrens.
At its peak, the wildfire stretched two miles long and 2.5 miles wide, Romaine said. The fire crossed roads, complicating firefighting efforts as 80 fire departments battled the flames.
“Our biggest problem is the wind,” Romaine said. “It’s driving this fire.”
Helicopters, including those from the Air National Guard, were deployed to drop water on the flames, he said.
A firefighter suffered second-degree burns to the face and was transported to a burn center, while other responders sustained minor injuries, Romaine said.
Officials were monitoring the air base near Gabreski Airport to determine whether an evacuation is necessary, he added.
Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid any potential ignition sources.
“Your awareness can help prevent further fire danger,” Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services said in a Facebook post thanking the Westhampton Beach Volunteer Fire Department, Westhampton Beach Volunteer Ambulance Company, and 90 volunteer fire and EMS agencies for their response.
Officials also thanked 11 Nassau County fire crews for stepping up to provide coverage for Suffolk County, as well as state and federal partners for their unwavering support.
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