Jennings Creek Fire Fully Contained After Two Weeks
Firefighters Work Tirelessly to Contain Blaze
The Jennings Creek fire at Sterling Forest State Park in Orange County, New York, has been fully contained after two weeks of battling the blaze. The fire, which burned for 14 days, was brought under control thanks to the efforts of over 1,300 firefighters and equipment from 427 fire companies.
Rain and Snow Aid in Suppression
Rain and snow on Thursday and Friday helped in dropping the ground temperature and suppressing the fire. Chinook and Black Hawk helicopters were also used to attack the fire from the air.
Governor Praises Firefighters
Governor Kathy Hochul praised the firefighters and staff who responded to the fire, saying, "For two weeks, firefighting crews and staff responded from around the state to battle the Jennings Creek wildfire, and today, they were successful in fully containing the fire. From the start, we launched a coordinated response with every available resource to help our first responders complete this mission and could not have done this without the professional and volunteer crews that worked alongside our partners in New Jersey, and crews from Colorado and Montana."
Fire Burns 5,304 Acres
The fire has burned 5,304 acres across New York and New Jersey since November 8. While the fire is fully contained and controlled, some fire crews will continue to patrol the perimeter to ensure that the fire does not reignite.
Burn Ban Remains in Effect
Despite recent rain, New York state remains under a burn ban until November 30. The ban prohibits outdoor fires for brush and debris disposal, uncontained campfires, and open fires for cooking. Backyard fire pits, contained campfires, and contained cooking fires are allowed.
Sterling Forest State Park Reopens
Sterling Forest State Park will reopen for hiking and hunting on Saturday east of Long Meadow Road and north of Route 17A. Trails in the fire zone will remain closed indefinitely.
Conclusion
The Jennings Creek fire was a significant challenge for firefighters and emergency responders, but thanks to their tireless efforts, the fire is now fully contained. The fire serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for caution when engaging in outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long did the Jennings Creek fire burn?
A: The fire burned for two weeks, from November 8 to November 22.
Q: How many firefighters and equipment were deployed to battle the fire?
A: Over 1,300 firefighters and equipment from 427 fire companies were deployed to battle the fire.
Q: What was the cause of the fire?
A: The cause of the fire is still unknown and is under investigation.
Q: Will the fire zone be reopened to the public?
A: Trails in the fire zone will remain closed indefinitely, but the rest of the park will reopen for hiking and hunting on Saturday.
