9 a.m. Update: Fire lines held strong overnight as the Jennings Creek wildfire made only minimal progress. Flames seen during the night were controlled burns as part of planned burnout operations and remained within designated fire lines. Throughout the night, volunteer teams led by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) Forest Rangers worked tirelessly to contain the spread. Burnout operations will continue today, which will result in more visible flames and smoke, as well as a gradual increase in the burned area.
The Jennings Creek fire continues to primarily affect Sterling Forest State Park and is confined within established fire lines. Yesterday, firefighting efforts received air support from the New York State Police and New York Army National Guard, with helicopters completing 166 water drops. Today, four helicopters—two Chinooks and two Blackhawks—are scheduled to assist in the suppression efforts. The Chinooks can carry up to 2,000 gallons per drop, while the Blackhawks carry approximately 600 gallons per bucket drop.
More than 300 firefighters from six state agencies, with critical support from several Rockland County fire departments and dozens of volunteer fire companies, are dedicated to battling the blaze, which is now 41% contained. Local fire departments from Rockland County are providing crucial on-the-ground support to manage and control the fire’s spread in coordination with state agencies.
