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New York firefighters are responding to large-scale wildfires in Long Island’s Pine Barrens.
The flames, which started around 1 p.m. on Saturday, have prompted evacuations and forced officials to close a road leading to the Hamptons.
In a news releases, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul said she had declared a state disaster emergency and spoken with the county executive about the fire and informed him New York is ready to provide any necessary resources.
The state National Guard is using helicopters to extinguish the flames and is coordinating with law enforcement. Additionally, Hochul deployed personnel from the Offices of Emergency Management, Fire Prevention and Control, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation, State Parks and the New York State Police.
“Public safety is my top priority, and I’m committed to doing everything possible to keep Long Islanders safe,” she said.
The Town of Southhampton separately declared a state of emergency from 3 p.m. through the next 30 days unless any changes are made to the proclamation.
Dry weather and high winds, along with damage to woodland areas caused by Southern Pine Beetle infestation, are exacerbating the conditions for dangerous wildfires, the town said in a statement.
This is a developing story…
