NY Gov Kathy Hochul warns Long Island wildfires could become ‘multi-day event’

Hochul declared a state of emergency following several wildfires being set ablaze in the Hamptons, resulting in evacuations of residents and major highway closures. Hochul confirmed to CNN on Saturday night that the situation could become a multi-day event. She also expressed concern about deteriorating air quality from smoke and ash flooding.

“I'm also concerned about the air quality... This can shift at any moment, but the air quality is definitely compromised,” Hochul said. The governor has also announced that 100,000 N-95 masks would be sent to residents for protection.

Firefighters have extinguished three smaller fires and contained 80 percent of the Westhampton fire, the largest of the four blazes. However, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine warned that strong winds and dry conditions could reignite flames.

“The winds will keep the embers alive, and we have to worry every day that this fire will rise again,” Romaine said. A state press release confirmed that weather forecasts predict gusts reaching 40 mph on Sunday morning, according to the Daily Mail.

Governor Hochul has also taken the opportunity to criticize federal budget cuts under the Trump administration, stating she “couldn’t rely” on the federal government for assistance.

“We're in a crisis situation and to cut funding for people who save our lives is deeply, deeply troubling,” Hochul said. “I'm not relying on the federal government.”

The fires have affected areas including Center Moriches, East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton. So far, only one injury has been reported—a firefighter hospitalized with second-degree burns. Two commercial buildings have also sustained damage.

“No residences are currently threatened, but officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and officials will be notified if that changes,” said Southampton Police Chief James Kiernan.