Update: Sam’s Point Wildfire 35% Contained

Despite some reports saying the wildfire at Sam’s Point Preserve in Ulster County was out, officials say it’s still an active brushfire.

Wednesday afternoon around 4:00 p.m., the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said the fire has decreased and is currently smoldering. Officials say yesterday’s rainy conditions helped firefighters battle the flames.

However, the DEC reports it is still an active brushfire with 35% contained.

Yesterday it was reported that the fire scorched 2,000 acres. However, today DEC forest rangers have been able to get more accurate assessment and say currently 1,574 acres have been destroyed.

State and local operations are currently focusing on fully containing the fire. New York State Police helicopters have been actively dropping water on the flames.

Weather conditions the next few days will warm and dry out available surface fuels and brush which could reignite flames, officials say.

As a result, additional air drops will likely become necessary

The DEC is reminding residents that due to warming temperatures and drying conditions residential brush burning is prohibited through May 14.