New Yorkers may be enjoying the unusually warm weather this week, but don’t let the sunshine fool you—this welcome break from winter comes with a hidden danger. The National Weather Service has issued an urgent warning: dry air, gusty winds, and higher-than-normal temperatures have increased the city’s fire risk.
Officials have acted quickly in response to brush fires that have already started across Long Island. A burn ban is currently in effect in New York City, Long Island, and parts of the Hudson Valley. If you intend to start a fire outside, even if it’s as simple as burning leaves or starting a bonfire, think again. The conditions are ideal for flames to spread quickly, and officials urge residents to take this warning seriously.
Why Is There a Fire Risk in March? Understanding the Unusual Weather Pattern
March in New York is typically a cold, wet month, but this year is different.
Temperatures reached the 60s on Tuesday, which is much higher than normal for this time of year. Normally, early spring has plenty of moisture in the air, but this sudden heat wave has brought low humidity and strong winds—a dangerous combination that makes fires easy to start and spread.
Dry air makes vegetation, grass, and brush more brittle and flammable than usual. When strong winds are present, even the smallest spark—from a cigarette, a backyard fire, or an electrical wire—can ignite an uncontrollable blaze.
The Burn Ban: What It Means for You
To avoid a fire disaster, Governor Kathy Hochul has issued an emergency burn ban that will last until March 16. This means:
PROHIBITED:
- Burning brush, leaves, or other yard debris
- Open, uncontained campfires
- Any kind of open-air burning for waste disposal
ALLOWED (With Caution!):
- Small, contained fire pits for recreational use
- Outdoor cooking fires in properly enclosed areas
- Charcoal and gas grills (but be extra careful!)
This ban is in response to recent brush fires in Long Island’s Pine Barrens, which have already burned acres of land due to dry conditions. Officials warn that if more fires start, firefighters may struggle to control them in such harsh weather conditions.
What Happens Next? When Will the Fire Risk End?
The good news is that relief is on the way. A cold front is expected to move in overnight, bringing lower temperatures on Wednesday, with highs in the upper 40s and low 50s. However, this temperature shift brings another twist: the possibility of rain or snow in some inland areas.
While the moisture will help to reduce the fire risk, residents should still exercise caution because dry conditions may persist in some areas before the rain arrives.
How to Stay Safe and Prevent Fires
Avoid burning anything outdoors—even if you think it’s small, a single spark can spread.
Don’t flick cigarette butts onto the ground—dispose of them properly in a closed container.
Keep an eye on fire pits and BBQs—even small, contained fires can become a hazard in dry conditions.
Report any signs of smoke or fire immediately—early action can prevent a major disaster.
While it may be tempting to enjoy the warm weather, now is not the time for outdoor fires or dangerous activities. Officials advise everyone to take fire safety seriously until conditions improve.
