Dry winds in NY and NJ keep wildfires burning throughout the region

Wildfires continued to burn across northern New Jersey and New York on Tuesday, fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. The largest blaze, the Jennings Creek Wildfire, has scorched 3,500 acres along the New Jersey–New York border, with only 20% containment as of Monday night. Governor Kathy Hochul described it as the largest fire in New York since 2008. The fires have taken a tragic toll, claiming the life of 18-year-old Dariel Vasquez, who was struck by a falling tree while working with the New York State Parks Department.

Although there was light rain over the weekend, it was not enough to alleviate the extreme dryness affecting the region. A red flag warning remains in effect, urging residents to avoid any outdoor burning, as officials work to prevent further flare-ups. Mayor Eric Adams has also banned grilling in New York City parks following a separate fire in Prospect Park. With no rain in sight, firefighters are relying on every available resource to control the fires and protect local communities.

Source: Gothamist