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, recreational fires and open fires used for cooking.

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. While the statewide burn ban is no longer in effect, brush burning is strongly discouraged under current conditions. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State and Pleasant Valley has a burn ban currently in effect. New Yorkers are encouraged to refrain from making fires in these dry areas to help protect communities and first responders and to always check if burn bans are in place in their local municipalities.