Connecticut Faces Extended High Brush Fire Risk During Spring Season

Connecticut faced a high risk of brush fires over the weekend and into Monday, with the state's Forest Fire Danger Level rated high across all eight counties. This elevated risk led to the invalidation of local permits for burning brush within 100 feet of woodland or grassland areas. The ongoing high fire risk marks at least six consecutive days of concern, driven by dry conditions and sporadic wind gusts. Several fires were reported statewide, including a significant 200-acre fire in Haddam started by a truck fire, which also ignited a house.

Other incidents included a 4-acre fire in Salem and multiple fires at recreational areas and residential properties. The Connecticut Wildland Fire Reporting System documented a total of 14 fires over Saturday and Sunday, with causes ranging from structure fires to debris burning and campfires. Meteorological factors contributing to fire risk included gusty winds and low relative humidity, around 25%, which dries out fine fuels such as twigs and leaves that can ignite rapidly. Connecticut's spring fire season persists through mid-May, posing ongoing challenges for fire management due to the prevalence of "one-hour" fuels that become highly flammable shortly after drying. These conditions underscore the importance of heightened vigilance and compliance with burn restrictions during this critical period.