The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), alongside local fire departments and out-of-state resources, has been managing several wildfires across Connecticut, including in Berlin, Canaan, Vernon, and Weston.
The fires, driven by dry conditions and an accumulation of fallen leaves, pose increased challenges for firefighting efforts.
As reported by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the rapid spread of these wildfires has led to a large-scale response from state and local firefighting units.
A firefighter, Robert Sharkevich Sr. from Wethersfield, lost his life while responding to the fire on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin.
Commissioner Katie Dykes highlighted the risk, urging residents to be aware of fire dangers, saying: “Connecticut is experiencing unseasonably warm and dry conditions that have significantly increased the risk of wildfires across the state.”
DEEP fire crews are currently managing major wildfires, including the 107-acre Hawthorne Fire on Lamentation Mountain, where air support from the Connecticut Army National Guard and Maine Forest Service has been deployed.
The firefighting strategy includes water drops from helicopters to areas deemed too hazardous for ground crews.
Meanwhile, in Canaan, DEEP and local resources are containing a smaller 2.8-acre fire.
Crews are also working in Vernon, where a 9-acre fire remains active, and in Weston, where fire monitoring is ongoing.
New fires have emerged in Meriden, Burlington, East Granby, Tolland, and Easton, monitored by local resources.
The ongoing dry conditions, combined with challenging terrains and forecasted winds, have complicated the suppression efforts, leading to round-the-clock shifts for responding personnel.
To support firefighting operations and enhance safety, a no-fly zone has been established in affected areas, allowing for uninterrupted air support.
DEEP urges the public to avoid using drones in these zones, as unauthorized drones disrupt aerial firefighting activities.
When drones are detected, all support aircraft must halt operations until airspace is cleared, increasing both risk and response time.
Firefighters from multiple Connecticut municipalities, along with state and federal agencies, are working together to control these fires.
Crews are utilizing specialized equipment, including Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) and fire engines, to reach hotspots and protect nearby residences.
Brenda Bergeron, Deputy Commissioner of DEMHS, praised the collaborative efforts, stating: “The response to the Hawthorne Fire is a true example of teamwork with local, state, federal, and private sector partners working together.”
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning on Wednesday, cautioning that current weather conditions could lead to rapid fire spread and unpredictable fire behavior.
This warning, driven by strong winds, low humidity, and dry ground conditions, emphasizes the heightened risk and serves as a reminder for residents to exercise caution with outdoor activities that could trigger fires.
The DEEP Forest Fire Control Office reminds the public of essential fire safety practices, including avoiding outdoor burning, maintaining a safe distance from flammable materials, and fully extinguishing any fires before leaving the area.
Homeowners are also advised to create fire-safe zones around their property by removing flammable debris, clearing gutters, and using fire-resistant roofing materials.
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), together with local fire departments and regional partners, continues to manage numerous wildfires across Connecticut.
Fires in Berlin, Canaan, Vernon, and Weston have intensified due to dry weather and an increased fuel load from fallen leaves.
Tragically, Wethersfield firefighter Robert Sharkevich Sr.
lost his life in the effort to contain the Hawthorne Fire on Lamentation Mountain.
DEEP has coordinated air support from the Connecticut Army National Guard and Maine Forest Service to aid suppression efforts.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect, cautioning that dry conditions and strong winds may cause fires to spread rapidly.
DEEP urges the public to exercise fire safety, avoid using drones near active firefighting zones, and follow local regulations on open burning to prevent accidental fires.
