A
severe drought has gripped the Northeastern U.S., creating "unprecedented" conditions for wildfires, according to experts. The dry fall has led to hundreds of brushfires from Virginia to Maine, including a 2-acre blaze in Brooklyn's Prospect Park that disrupted Amtrak service and claimed a parks employee's life.

    High winds, low humidity, and dry leaves have created perfect kindling conditions, even in areas not typically prone to wildfires. While other parts of the country, like California, are also experiencing wildfires, they tend to be more prepared.

    The Fire Department of New York has responded to 229 brushfires since October 29, a record high for a two-week period in city history. Mayor Eric Adams has put New York City under a red flag drought watch and urged residents to conserve water.

    Experts say the severe drought has led to "unprecedented" conditions for fire in the Northeast. To protect themselves and their homes, property owners can take several steps: avoid burning outdoors, regularly clean their properties, use fire-retardant drapes, seal gaps to keep embers out, stay informed through condo or co-op boards, remove fuel sources, and have a fire extinguisher on hand.

    Regular cleaning of homes and removal of dust and debris can prevent embers from entering homes and spreading. Fire-resistant caulk and sheets can be used to seal gaps in windows, walls, and doors. Removing flammable materials like shrubs, trees, and wood trim can also help reduce the risk of fire spread.

    In addition to these measures, decluttering is essential for preventing fires. Piles of paper, boxes, and other combustibles near heat sources can cause fires, while cluttered floors can block escape routes and make evacuation more difficult in an emergency.