Northeastern US faces new fire threat: Residents are evacuated

Wildfire Threat in the US

Prevention Measures in Place Nationwide

Authorities Conduct Evacuations

The northeastern U.S. is facing a severe wildfire threat, prompting evacuations and intense efforts to contain the flames.

This weekend, a wildfire broke out along the border between New York and New Jersey.

Authorities implemented voluntary evacuations in Warwick, New York, as a precautionary measure.

Approximately 165 homes were included in this preventive plan to ensure extreme safety.

Wildfires Trigger Alerts in the US

Wildfire threats in the US prompt evacuations. PHOTO: The Associated Press

The Jennings Creek Fire, intensified by strong winds, has challenged emergency teams’ containment efforts.

As of Friday, the fire was 90% contained in Passaic County, New Jersey, and 70% contained in Orange County, New York.

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However, adverse weather conditions, including stronger winds over the weekend, have complicated firefighting efforts.

The burned area now spans 19 square kilometers across both states and could increase further.

The New York Parks Department reported that National Guard and State Police helicopters joined the operation.

Over 21,000 gallons of water were dropped to slow the flames in Sterling Forest State Park, the main site of the fire.

Despite the fire’s severity, the visitors’ center and areas near Greenwood Lake remained open, though hunting activities were temporarily suspended.

Residences near the lake have not been directly affected, but authorities remain vigilant for any changes.

The National Weather Service predicts no significant rainfall until Wednesday night.

This forces firefighting teams to stay on-site to control potential flare-ups.

Tragically, the fire claimed one life.

An 18-year-old Department of Parks employee died on November 9 after being struck by a tree while battling the flames in Sterling Forest.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, adding to the somber efforts to contain the blaze.

According to The Associated Press, the issue extends beyond New York and New Jersey.

Other northeastern states, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, are also experiencing critical wildfire conditions.

In New England, wildfire risks are elevated. Massachusetts, for instance, has seen a significant increase in wildfires this year.

While October typically averages 15 wildfires, over 200 have been reported this year.

This alarming trend concerns authorities due to persistent dry conditions and surface fuels. Southern New Hampshire is also on high alert.

Authorities have identified a «very high» fire risk due to weather conditions and a lack of ground moisture.

Maine is grappling with drought and dry conditions, especially in its southern regions, heightening the risk of wildfires.

Efforts to combat these wildfires remain active across the region.

Specialized teams are working tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent their spread to populated areas.

The combination of strong winds, prolonged droughts, and lack of rain poses a constant challenge for firefighters and affected communities.

Authorities are urging the public to stay alert and follow instructions to avoid risky situations.

This situation underscores the northeastern region’s vulnerability to wildfires and the urgent need for preventive measures amid climate change.

Interstate cooperation and coordinated actions are essential to minimize damage and protect lives and infrastructure.

With no immediate improvements in weather conditions, the wildfire season in the northeast could extend further.

The public is advised to remain attentive to any updates provided by authorities.

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Wildfire threats in US – PHOTO: MundoNOW