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New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that wildfires burning in Ulster and Orange counties are now 90% contained. The fires are the largest in the state since 2008, and the response has included the deployment of over 1,300 personnel from fire departments across the state. National Guard helicopters have conducted more than 550 water drops, releasing over half a million gallons of water on the Orange County fire alone.
The governor urged New Yorkers to continue conserving water and to adhere to a statewide burn ban. Meanwhile, residents of Dutchess County are being advised to stay indoors to avoid exposure to smoke from the Butternut Forest Fire in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. The public is also advised to limit strenuous outdoor activities and consider wearing a mask for protection.
According to the governor's official website, there are currently six wildfires in New York State, covering nearly 6,031 acres, including the Jennings Creek/Sterling Forest State Park fire. The response to these wildfires has involved multiple agencies, including the Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, New York State Police, and the Department of Transportation.