Brush fires on New York’s Long Island erupted Saturday, forcing evacuations in the Hamptons and shutting down a major highway as thick smoke billowed for miles, fueled by low humidity and gusty winds, heightening concerns for residents and emergency crews.
Fire crews from various departments are tackling blazes located close to Francis S. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton and within the Pine Barrens area and in a “large-scale coordinated countywide effort,” Southampton emergency management told Newsday.
Videos circulating online captured towering plumes of smoke stretching for miles after brush fires erupted, shutting down a major route to the Hamptons.
Sharing a post on X, Governor Kathy Hochul stated: “New York State agencies are responding to a brush fire in the Pine Barrens. We are in close communication with local partners on Long Island to coordinate assistance and make sure they have the resources they need to protect their communities.”
Authorities have shut down the eastbound Sunrise Highway at Exit 58, with law enforcement officials requesting the public to avoid the area. More details awaited.
This is a developing copy.