More People, Resources to Fight Massive Hudson Valley Wildfire

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo directed additional state emergency personnel Sunday to the massive wildfire at Sam's Point Preserve near Ellenville in Ulster County.

State and local first responders are currently working to build a perimeter around the blaze, which has consumed approximately 300 acres to date, and continues to move south in a narrow band within the preserve.

The fire began Saturday in rugged terrain which is only accessible on foot. The preserve on the highest point of the Shawangunk Ridge is known for its dwarf pines. By last night the fire had burned up to the Ice Caves, Orange and Rockland County Fire reported.

“State emergency personnel have been working around the clock to contain this wildfire and protect the safety of New Yorkers,” Cuomo said in his announcement. “We continue to work with all local partners to stop this fire in its tracks, and I urge residents to stay clear of the affected area and remain alert and informed.”

In Ulster County, more than 40 state personnel from Department of Environmental Conservation, Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, State Police, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and Office of Emergency Management are assisting local first responders as they battle the fire.

Since the fire began Saturday, a State Police helicopter has completed approximately twenty water-dropping operations and two State Police helicopters will continue these operations today, with a third on standby for Medivac operations if needed, state officials said. The two helicopters are equipped with 'Bambi Buckets' – which can carry 250 gallons of water. The water is taken from local ponds or lakes and dropped on the hottest parts of the fire.

Additionally, about 80 personnel from 13 local fire departments and EMS services are actively engaged in battling the fire, state officials said.

PHOTO/Orange and Rockland County Fire