Connecticut fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Connecticut - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Connecticut is entering its typical spring brush fire season, which runs from mid-March to mid-May. This period is characterized by increased fire risk due to the combination of warm spring weather, windy conditions, and the drying out of forest fuels such as grass, leaves, twigs, and branches. The state has recently experienced a reduction in drought conditions due to recent rain and snowmelt, but the risk of wildfires remains a significant concern.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** The spring season in Connecticut is known for an increased risk of brush fires. Despite some improvement in drought conditions, warmer and windier weather is expected to elevate fire activity in the coming weeks[1][2][3].
- **Active Fires:** While there are no major active wildfires currently reported in Connecticut, the state is on high alert due to the historical pattern of brush fires during this time of year. In 2024, Connecticut experienced 605 wildfires, impacting 510 acres and resulting in significant damage and loss[2].
- **Fire Restrictions:** Outdoor burn restrictions are in place within various counties and municipalities in Connecticut. Local open burning permits are automatically suspended on days when the fire danger level is rated High, Very High, or Extreme[2].

#### Key Details
- **Spring Brush Fire Season:** This season is particularly hazardous due to the rapid drying of forest fuels. Deciduous trees being bare allow the sun to heat up the forest floor, making grasses, twigs, and small branches highly flammable. These fuels can dry out and become ready to burn within an hour, especially when it is windy[2][3].
- **Causes of Wildfires:** The majority of wildfires in Connecticut are caused by human actions, including improper burning of debris, poor management of campfires, arson, careless discarding of wood ashes, and placing motorized equipment on or near fire fuels[2].
- **Fire Prevention Tips:** Residents are advised to properly dispose of wood ashes, ensure all campfires are completely extinguished and cool to the touch, and take proper care when extinguishing and disposing of smoking materials. It is also important to clear combustible materials like leaves and overhead branches from properties[2][3].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents should be vigilant and cautious when burning anything outdoors. It is crucial to follow local burning regulations and to stay informed about the daily forest fire danger index. Residents can sign up for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) daily Forest Fire Danger Report[2].
- **Emergency Preparedness:** If a forest fire is spotted, residents should remain calm, call 911 immediately, and provide detailed information about the location and any suspicious activities. Having an emergency plan in place and ensuring adequate insurance coverage for property and liability is also recommended[2][3].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP):** [www.ct.gov/deep](https://portal.ct.gov/deep)
- Sign up for DEEP’s daily Forest Fire Danger Report: [Forest Fire Weather Information and Danger Explanations](https://portal.ct.gov/deep/news-releases/news-releases---2025/deep-reminds-residents-to-exercise-caution-during-spring-brush-fire-season)
- **National Interagency Coordination Center Fire Outlooks:** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **Local Fire Updates and Warnings:** [WeatherBug Fire Updates for New London, CT](https://www.weatherbug.com/alerts/fire/new-london-ct-06320)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://www.drought.gov/drought-status-updates/drought-status-update-northeast-2025-03-14', 'https://portal.ct.gov/deep/news-releases/news-releases---2025/deep-reminds-residents-to-exercise-caution-during-spring-brush-fire-season', 'https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM5Y7vdKSjs', 'https://www.weatherbug.com/alerts/fire/new-london-ct-06320', 'https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/more-evacuations-as-wildfires-burn-in-the-20242219.php']