New York State implements temporary burn ban

ALBANY, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — New York State is now under a temporary burn ban, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday.

The governor announced the ban — beginning on Thursday, October 2 — is the result of increased fire risk and continued dry conditions. According to the Department of Environmental Conservation website, the dry conditions have resulted in a High Fire Danger for most of the state, including Northern Oneida and Northern Herkimer Counties. In the Mohawk Valley, Southern Herkimer and all of Otsego Counties are currently under a Moderate fire danger.

A high fire danger means that all dead fuels ignite readily and fires will start easily from most causes, including unattended brush and campfires. Moderate fire danger means fires can start from most accidental causes.

The high fire danger is being attributed to gusty winds and lower relative humidities,

“The ongoing nice weather is great for watching fall foliage or gathering with friends, but it also presents a higher risk for fires that put homes, businesses, and our brave first responders at risk,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. “Many regions are already in a drought watch or warning due to the dry conditions, and with the fire risk rising in some parts of the state, it is important to keep everyone safe by implementing this temporary burn ban.”

Under the ban, fires meant for brush and debris disposal are prohibited. The ban also includes uncontained fires, including campfires and open cooking fires. Backyard fire pits and campfires under three feet in height and four feet in length are allowed, as well as small, contained cooking fires.

“New York State is fortunate to have some of the most qualified wildland firefighters in the country protecting our forests and communities,” New York State DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said in a statement. “New Yorkers can help keep them and our resources safe by working to prevent fires in the first place. We fully support Governor Hochul’s decision to ban outdoor fires until conditions return to safer levels and continue to encourage New Yorkers to help conserve water so that we have an abundant supply for firefighting and other essential uses.”

The ban remains in effect until at least Wednesday, October 15. The governor and the DEC will reevaluate conditions before its expiration to decide whether or not to extend the ban.