MIDDLETON – A red flag warning was issued in Massachusetts on Friday after wildfires continued to burn across the state. The warning, issued by the National Weather Service, is in effect for all of Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
At least 100 fires have burned 424 acres across the state since Saturday, according to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
Middleton brush fires
In Middleton, people woke up to heavy smoke smells Friday morning due to dry conditions and high winds.
“There was smoke coming out of the woods all the time,” resident Andrew Leclerc told WBZ-TV. “It’s smoky, very, very smoky.”
The forest fire was just a few meters from his house.
“They have already connected fire hydrants to hoses, in preparation for the fire (if it does come towards the house),” Leclerc said. “I’ve never seen a wildfire like this.”
DCR emphasizes that “almost all” fire activities are caused by humans. They ask everyone to avoid any outdoor activities that could ignite dry brush, such as sparks from machinery, cigarettes and unattended campfires.
“Do not burn outdoors and be very careful with any source of ignition,” said Alex Belote, DCR burn program coordinator.
Firefighters in Salem and Middleton will continue to monitor potential hot spots and embers. The cause of the Middleton fire remains under investigation.
Prescribed burns
Fire officials said the fires were under control Friday after a night of prescribed burning.
It is a common tactic to reduce the risk of uncontrolled fires in high-risk areas. Firefighters will burn down an area around a hot spot or an active forest fire so that when it reaches the purposefully scorched ground, it has nowhere else to go. The burns could be good for the land and ecosystem, the US Forest Service says.
“It will continue to burn until the fuel runs out,” said Middleton Fire Chief Douglas LeColst.
Much of the Boston area and the North Shore are in the middle of one severe drought and limited rain is forecast.
Anyone who spots a forest fire should call 911.
