Gov. Lamont issues a state of emergency in wake of brush fires

Lamont urges residents to avoid any type of outdoor burning as the current conditions pose a high risk of fire danger.

Jack Walsh and Rose Shannon

Oct 25, 2024, 10:58 PM

Updated 11 hr ago

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Gov. Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency in the wake of various brush fires on Friday.
Lamont released a statement, saying "The filing of this declaration will help provide state and local emergency management officials with the necessary tools to monitor and limit the threat of potential fires, respond to active fires, and respond to any additional fires that may start. We are strongly urging all Connecticut residents to avoid any type of outdoor burning as the current conditions pose a high risk of fire danger."
The declaration comes as officials determined the Berlin brush fire was caused by a campfire.
Officials say the campfire was built near the top of the cliffs, in an area that is popular spot for camping and hiking.
Investigators believe the fire was not maliciously started and think someone was camping or hiking and attempted to put out the fire, but a hot ash blew away.
The fire has now impacted 121 acres.
Red flag warnings for Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties remain in place until 7 p.m. Saturday.