New York Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for New York - August 23, 2026

Overview

New York is currently experiencing a period of low wildfire risk. Over the last 72 hours, weather patterns have brought heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, and high humidity across much of the state, particularly in the New York City and Lower Hudson Valley regions. These wet conditions have significantly mitigated the threat of large-scale wildfires. The current National Preparedness Level remains high due to significant fire activity in other parts of the country and Canada, but local resources in New York are not currently strained by in-state wildland fires.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, wildland fire activity in New York has been minimal. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers continue to monitor state lands, but favorable weather conditions and recent rainfall have kept new fire starts at bay. There are currently no significant active wildfires threatening communities or requiring large-scale suppression efforts within the state.

Key Fires:
Town of Webb Fire: Highlighted in recent DEC Forest Ranger incident reports, this small wildland fire occurred near the Woodhull Lake lean-to in Herkimer County. While it only burned approximately 100 square feet, it required a specialized backcountry response. The fire was caused by an unattended campfire and was fueled by ground litter, dry brush, and mixed timber. Forest Rangers and the local fire department utilized an inflatable boat to transport supplies across the water to successfully extinguish the flames and prevent further spread into the surrounding forest.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Land management activities continue where weather permits. Tracking systems currently note localized prescribed burns, such as the Stop 4 and Stop 8 Rx Fires, which are being managed to safely reduce hazardous fuel loads. Meanwhile, local municipalities are evaluating long-term fire safety protocols. For example, the Kingston Common Council is actively reviewing a proposal to implement proactive, temporary outdoor burn bans during any future periods of DEC-designated "high fire danger." The statewide annual spring brush burning ban is currently lifted, but residents are reminded to check local municipal regulations before conducting any open burning.

Air Quality: With no major active wildfires within the state and heavy rain clearing the air, air quality across New York remains stable. Earlier in the month, smoke from large Canadian wildfires (such as the Bird River Fire) prompted air quality alerts, but current atmospheric conditions have pushed the smoke out of the region.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Over the past 72 hours, southeastern New York has experienced significant precipitation. The National Weather Service has issued Flood Advisories and Flash Flood Warnings for areas including Westchester County, the Bronx, and Manhattan, with Doppler radar indicating localized heavy rainfall totals of 2.5 to 4.5 inches.
Forecasted Weather: There are currently no Red Flag Warnings in effect for New York State. The forecast for the upcoming 72 hours predicts continued chances of showers and thunderstorms with high humidity levels. These conditions will continue to keep the fire danger low across the state.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Even with low fire danger, residents and visitors recreating on state lands, including the Adirondacks and Catskills, are urged to practice strict fire safety. Always ensure campfires are fully extinguished and never leave them unattended. Additionally, residents in low-lying areas should remain alert for flash flooding due to the ongoing heavy rains.
Resource Allocation: With minimal in-state fire activity, New York's emergency and forestry resources remain focused on localized emergency responses, including flood mitigation, swift-water rescues, and backcountry medical interventions.

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
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services: dhses.ny.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.