CONNECTICUT, USA — As Connecticut approaches the Veterans Day weekend, the state is under a Red Flag warning due to dry conditions and high winds, making it a critical period for fire safety. There are reports of sustained winds of 10-20 mph and gusts up to 40 mph, coupled with low humidity. This combination significantly increases the risk of wildfires igniting and spreading rapidly.
Since Oct. 21, Connecticut has experienced 150 brush fires, with 74 still under active monitoring. The fire risk remains heightened due to ongoing dry weather, which is the driest stretch in state’s recorded history. As a result, over 90 municipalities have implemented local burn bans, and the state has enforced a burn ban in all parks and forests.
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State officials are urging residents to follow strict fire safety guidelines, including avoiding open flames, properly disposing of ashes, and refraining from using machinery near dry vegetation. Public cooperation is essential to mitigate fire risks as the state continues to endure extreme weather patterns.
“As we honor our veterans this weekend, we ask all Connecticut residents to be vigilant and exercise extreme caution to protect our communities,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes.
For fire safety updates, residents can visit the DEEP website or call 211.
RELATED: Brush fire spreads to apartment building in Norwich: Officials
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Chris Charbonneau is an Assignment Editor at FOX61 News. He can be reached at ccharbonneau@fox61.com.
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