Between April 21 and 28, New York State Forest Rangers and local fire departments responded to wildfires in five counties across New York State which burned more than 21 acres. The largest fire was in Lake Luzerne, Warren County, measuring 14 acres, which started on April 24 and was contained the same day.
Six of the eight fires were caused by debris burning. DEC reminds New Yorkers that the statewide brush burning ban is in effect through May 14. Violators of the ban are subject to a minimum fine of $500.
The Hudson Valley, Catskill, and Long Island regions are in “high” danger status. The current fire danger map is available on DEC’s website.
Most of New York State west of Cayuga County and south of Greene County is abnormally dry according to the US Drought Monitor.
Most of New York City, and Westchester, Rockland, Orange and Putnam Counties, and the southern part of Sullivan County is in a moderate drought.
Photo of Lake Luzerne wildfire provided by DEC.
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