.jpeg)
Bushfires in regions that have not experienced rainfall for over a month are enveloping parts of New York City with potentially hazardous smoke. A wildfire ignited approximately 80 miles away in Ulster and Sullivan counties, along with another blaze nearer to the city in Passaic County, New Jersey. Officials from both states report that firefighting crews are battling the flames under record-breaking drought conditions.
An unusually dry air mass, more typical of midwinter, is heightening fire risks across the Northeast. Strong winds on Saturday spread a fire near the New York-New Jersey border, directing smoke southward into New York City.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service announced on social media Saturday night that the Cannonball 3 Wildfire is 75% contained over 175 acres, although 55 structures remain at risk. Additionally, the agency reported the Jennings Creek Wildfire in the same county, which covers 2,000 acres and remains entirely uncontained.
The Whitehouse Fire in Ulster and Sullivan counties has affected approximately 300 to 400 acres and is anticipated to grow, according to New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) on Saturday. State forest rangers, along with 70 personnel from 13 fire departments, are engaged in firefighting efforts. Drones are being utilized to monitor the situation. While there are no mandatory evacuations in place, some trails in the vicinity have been closed.
It is expected that winds will carry the smoke away from New York City throughout Saturday night. Rain is anticipated on Sunday evening, with forecasters predicting between a quarter-inch and half-inch of precipitation that may alleviate but not resolve the severe dryness.
Hochul stated that the state has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory due to “smoke-enhanced fine particulate matter that could reach levels considered Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” in the New York City area.
New York Mayor Eric Adams (D) requested that residents refrain from grilling and advised those with respiratory issues to remain indoors, ideally using air filters. He attributed the smoke to the fires in New Jersey and noted a recent fire in Brooklyn’s 526-acre Prospect Park.
“It’s vital that we all take appropriate measures during this drought,” he emphasized.
Much of the Northeast has gone without rain for over a month. The drought poses an increased risk when combined with the dry autumn foliage prevalent throughout the region. While fall fires are not unusual, it is rare for the Northeast to experience consecutive red flag fire warnings.
Earlier this month, New York City declared a citywide drought watch, with Adams urging residents to repair leaks, take shorter showers, turn off water while brushing teeth, and limit toilet flushing amid this historic lack of rainfall.
“Mother Nature is in control, and we must adapt to the water and rain shortages we are facing,” Adams remarked earlier this month.