New York Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for New York - June 21, 2026

Overview

New York is experiencing typical early summer conditions. While New York's temperate climate means large wildfires do not occur as regularly as in more arid regions, the state still sees localized wildfire activity, primarily driven by weather conditions and human activities. The current fire danger across most of the state is low to moderate, with recent warm temperatures prompting vigilance from state and local fire agencies.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours and recent weeks, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers and local fire departments have responded to several small wildland fires. The majority of these fires have been kept small through rapid response and direct attack. Firefighters are working to quickly suppress these fires while also managing an increase in backcountry search and rescue missions.

Key Fires:
Pine Plains Fire: Located on Shultz Hill Road in Dutchess County, this 0.5-acre fire was fueled by a field of dry grasses and scrubs. Multiple local fire departments assisted Forest Rangers in suppression efforts, successfully containing the fire before it could spread further into heavier timber.

Washington County Fire: Located on private land near Dresden and Huletts Landing, this recent fire burned in heavy logging slash. Multiple local fire departments and Forest Rangers successfully brought the 100-foot-by-100-foot fire under control and declared it out. The heavy timber litter and slash were the primary fuels feeding the fire, requiring significant mop-up efforts.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The annual statewide residential brush burning ban, which ran from March 16 through May 14, successfully helped reduce the number of spring fires. With the ban now lifted, residents are reminded to follow local regulations for any open burning and ensure that campfires are properly contained and fully extinguished.

Air Quality: Air quality remains generally good across the state. However, residents should be aware that localized smoke from small brush fires or prescribed burns may temporarily impact immediate surrounding areas.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: For Sunday, June 21, New York is experiencing partly sunny to cloudy skies with daytime temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to lower 80s. Humidity levels are currently hovering around 44% to 58%, keeping the immediate fire threat relatively manageable.

Forecasted Weather: A weather system is moving into the region, bringing a 75% chance of rain for Monday and Tuesday, which will significantly aid in keeping fire danger low and assisting with fuel moisture recovery. Temperatures will remain in the 70s and 80s throughout the week. There are currently no Red Flag Warnings in effect for the state, but residents should remain aware of changing conditions.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents and visitors are reminded that human activities—such as unattended campfires and debris burning—are the leading causes of wildfires in New York. It is crucial to never leave fires unattended and to fully extinguish them when finished.

Resource Allocation: State Forest Rangers are actively managing both wildland fire suppression and an influx of backcountry search and rescue missions as the summer hiking season begins.

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): dec.ny.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.