Jennings Creek fire: Wildland firefighters from Montana expected to join crews Friday
Crews have made gains in the battle against the Jennings Creek wildfire, nearly a week after the blaze ignited on the New York/New Jersey border.
As of 7:30 p.m. Thursday, the fire had been 69% contained.
A Thursday night update posted to social media by mayor of Greenwood Lake Tom Howley said tactical efforts on the ground and in the air, involving more than 300 firefighters from six state agencies and dozens of volunteer fire companies, contributed to the day's success.
What to know Friday, Nov. 15:
Additional support is expected to arrive Friday from throughout New York, including help from out of state. A team of 20 wildland firefighters from Montana are anticipated Friday.
Orange & Rockland is expected to keep the power on for residents Friday, unless "something changes forcing de-energization," Howley said. O&R will notify customers via robocall if a shutoff is necessary.
As suppression operations continue Friday, particulate matter in the air and smoky conditions are expected to persist.
East Shore Road will remain closed Friday
Greenwood Lake schools are closed Friday
Read on for updates in the battle against the Jennings Creek fire.
'Smoke jumpers' to assist in backburning efforts near Jennings Creek fire
The Town of Tuxedo announced Thursday that "smoke jumpers," trained experts who specialize in wildfires, will be brought in from western and Midwestern states to "ramp up the attack and make a hard push to put the entire fire to its knees."
Smoke jumpers will assist in backburning approximately 1,500 acres from Greenwood Lake to the fire tower near Sterling Lake on Friday, and from the fire tower to Long Meadow Road on Saturday.
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said crews would continue to "fight fire with fire" Thursday as they conducted controlled burns to remove debris from around the fire line, creating more visible fire and smoky conditions for the area, as well as an increase in total acreage of the fire.
Hudson Valley weather: Less wind, warmer weekend temperatures but no rain. See forecast
Weather forecast provides no immediate relief for drought conditions
As containment efforts continue in the fight against the Jennings Creek fire, the weather forecast points to continuing dry conditions in the Lower Hudson Valley. The coming days are expected to be mild and windy, with virtually no chance of rain predicted in the next week.
At a Tuesday news conference addressing ongoing efforts to battle the Jennings Creek wildfire in New York and New Jersey, Gov. Kathy Hochul said 2024 saw one of the driest months on record in the Empire State.
The Hudson Valley has been under a level 2 drought watch by the NYSDEC and a red flag wildfire watch by the National Weather Service. The level 2 designation points to a severe drought.
Hochul placed the entire state under a temporary burn ban Tuesday due to the ongoing dry conditions, which raises the risk of wildfires. She encouraged New Yorkers to conserve water.
The statewide burn ban prohibits outdoor burning of any kind.
"Do not leave campfires (unattended)," Hochul said. "Exercise extreme caution with outdoor grills."
More: These maintenance tips can help keep your home safe during wildfire season
What the NYSDEC says you can do to conserve water
The state DEC provided these tips on conserving water at home:
Water lawns only when necessary, choosing watering methods that avoid waste and watering early in the morning to reduce evaporation and maximize hydration.
Opt to reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers or air conditioners to water your plants.
Raise cutting heights on your lawn mower as longer grass is healthier, meaning it has stronger roots and requires less water.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean off your driveway and sidewalk.
Fix any leaking pipes, hoses and faucets in your home.
Contributing: USA TODAY Network New York reporter Emily Barnes.
(This story may update.)
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Fight against Jennings Creek fire continues Friday in NY
