Brush fires have erupted in Long Island and near Brooklyn due to strong winds in New York creating an elevated risk of fire spread, according to the National Weather Service. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Long Island’s Suffolk County and offered resources to support firefighting efforts in response to the fires. Multiple wildfires have been reported in Suffolk County, with two people injured and structures damaged. Southampton Town Supervisor declared a state of emergency due to multiple fires along Sunrise Highway caused by gusty winds, dry conditions, and woodland damage caused by the Southern Pine Beetle infestation. The fires in Brooklyn, specifically in Gerritsen Beach, were under control by the evening with no reported injuries. The New York State Department of Transportation closed portions of Sunrise Highway NY27 and South Service Road due to the fires. Wind advisories are expected to last through Saturday night, with gusts up to 30 mph and dry conditions continuing until Monday. The cause of the fires is currently unknown, but the weather service warns of the potential for fires to spread quickly due to the conditions. Overall, around 7 million people in New England are under wind alerts, including Boston and Albany, New York, and caution should be exercised around ignition sources.
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