Renewed winds reignited a wildfire near the New York-New Jersey border on Saturday, forcing emergency officials to implement a voluntary evacuation plan for approximately 165 homes in Warwick, New York. The evacuation, described as a precautionary measure, was enacted as firefighters continued efforts to contain the Jennings Creek blaze, according to New York Parks Department spokesman Jeff Wernick.
Containment Efforts Challenged by Windy Conditions
The wildfire had been 90% contained in Passaic County, New Jersey, and 70% contained in Orange County, New York, as of Friday. However, forecasted strong winds over the weekend raised concerns of further spread. The blaze has already scorched 7.5 square miles (19.4 square kilometers) across the two states, with officials warning the area burned could grow due to challenging weather conditions.
On Saturday, firefighting efforts ramped up with New York Army National Guard helicopters dropping 21,000 gallons (79,493 liters) of water, supplemented by nearly 900 gallons (3,406 liters) from a New York State Police helicopter.
Impact on Sterling Forest State Park
The wildfire continues to burn primarily within Sterling Forest State Park. While key attractions such as the visitor center, Greenwood Lake’s lakefront, and the historic furnace area remain open, woodland activities like hunting have been suspended. Residences around Greenwood Lake have not been directly affected, Wernick reported.
The fire has already claimed one life. An 18-year-old New York parks employee tragically died on November 9 when a falling tree struck him as he fought the flames. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Dry Conditions Extend Fire Threat Across the Northeast
The threat of wildfires isn’t limited to New York and New Jersey. Red flag warnings have been issued across New England, with Massachusetts experiencing an unusually high number of wildfires this October—200 compared to the typical 15. Dry conditions and strong winds are expected to exacerbate the situation.
Southern New Hampshire faces “very high” fire danger, while Maine’s southern region is under elevated risk due to persistent drought conditions. Most of Maine is classified as abnormally dry or in moderate drought, increasing the potential for wildfires.
Long Fight Ahead
With no significant rainfall expected in Warwick until midweek, firefighters are prepared to remain on the scene indefinitely to prevent further spread. Officials continue to monitor conditions closely, as the region braces for more dry, windy weather that could further fan the flames.
