New York State has implemented a statewide burn ban in effect until November 30 due to increased fire risk. This burn ban prohibits the starting of outdoor fires statewide for purposes of brush and debris disposal, as well as uncontained campfires, and open fires used for cooking. Backyard fire pits and contained campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small, contained cooking fires.

Recent dry conditions are resulting in a “High” fire danger for the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Long Island, Upper Hudson Valley/Champlain and St. Lawrence Fire Danger Rating Areas. A high fire danger means all fine, dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes, including unattended brush and campfires. The current fire danger map is available on the DEC website. The northern regions were elevated today due the expected gusty winds and lower relative humidities forecasted during the existing prolonged dry spell. Any notable rainfall from the weekend was not areawide. While the winds are expected to calm down after today, dry conditions are expected to continue until the next weather system is expected to arrive later this week.

Fires may become serious and controlling them difficult unless attacked successfully while still small. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State and several municipalities have burn bans currently in effect.