Sam's Point Preserve Wildfire Rages

The massive wildfire continues to rage at Sam's Point Preserve in Ulster County. So far more than 500 acres have burned.

A brushfire in Summitville was contained, and the Summitville Fire Company went to Facebook to thank all from mutual aid companies that gave up their Sunday afternoon to come to Summitville and help.

"This was a fire that could have gotten out of control if it were not for the multiple fire companies' quick response," they said.

However, the Cragsmoor-Walker Valley fire burns freely, and has jumped the fire line several times, according to Orange and Rockland County Fire:

Joining local firefighters, forest rangers and first responders are state personnel from Department of Environmental Conservation, Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, State Police, Department of Transportation, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and Office of Emergency Management.

Last night at night fell, Craig Lopez, Ulster County Legislator for Shawangunk and Wawarsing, updated his constituents on Facebook.

More than 100 state and local emergency personnel continue to fight the blaze in the Sams point preserve. It's speculated 500+ acres have burned thus far and the fire has yet to be contained.

That said, and although road access and the nature of the mountain terrain are contributing to the difficulty of getting the fire under control the firefighters I've spoken with on the ground remain optimistic that with their efforts and some weather cooperation the blaze will be easier to manage.

The state police will continue water-dropping operations as more than 40 state personnel from the Department of environmental conservation, parks, recreation and historic preservation, State police, office of fire prevention and control and office of emergency management continue to assist our local first responders.

As of earlier this evening there were no mandatory evacuations however, as conditions change I will keep you updated.

PHOTOS 1-4, 6-10/New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services. PHOTO 5: Smoke from the fire could be seen across the Hudson River from Bannerman Island/credit: Katie Nelson