New York Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for New York - June 01, 2026

Overview

New York is currently experiencing a manageable fire risk following the conclusion of the state's high-risk spring wildfire season. The annual statewide spring brush burning ban officially ended on May 14, 2026. The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that while national resources are managing multiple incidents across the country, adequate resources remain available for local and state response.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Fire activity across New York is currently light. Local fire departments and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers continue to monitor the state for new starts. With the lifting of the burn ban, there has been a slight increase in debris-burning-related incidents, but no major uncontained wildfires are currently threatening communities.

Key Fires:
Bombay Fire: Located in Franklin County, this 66-acre wildland fire was caused by the burning of large debris piles. It was fueled primarily by dry brush, timber litter, and stump debris. Fire crews, utilizing water-filled drainage ditches, excavators, ATVs, and portable pumps, were able to successfully contain the fire. Crews continue to monitor the area, breaking up debris and putting out lingering hot spots.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The New York State DEC and partner agencies have been conducting prescribed burns on state-managed lands, including the Albany Pine Bush Preserve and the Otis Pike Pine Barrens State Forest. These operations are utilized to manage fuel loads, improve wildlife habitat, and reduce the buildup of wood and timber litter to prevent future catastrophic wildfires.

Air Quality: The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recently issued an advisory reminding residents to be prepared for potential air quality events during the broader North American wildfire season. While there are no significant smoke impacts currently in the state, residents are advised to keep windows closed and reduce physical activity if smoke from local brush fires or distant wildfires moves into the area.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Current conditions across New York are generally sunny with temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s and moderate humidity. The National Weather Service reports no immediate fire weather concerns or Red Flag Warnings for the region at this time.
Forecasted Weather: The forecast for the next 72 hours indicates continued sunny to partly cloudy conditions, with temperatures warming into the upper 70s and 80s. Periodic light rain and scattered showers are expected later in the week, which will help maintain higher fuel moisture levels and keep the fire danger low.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Even though the statewide burn ban has been lifted, residents are urged to practice extreme caution when burning debris or having campfires. Fires should never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished. Open burning of garbage or leaves remains prohibited year-round in New York State.
Resource Allocation: DEC Forest Rangers and local volunteer fire departments remain ready to respond to any new ignitions. Agencies continue to focus on public education and wildland firefighter training as the summer season approaches.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC): www.dec.ny.gov
National Weather Service Fire Weather: www.weather.gov/fire

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.