Brush fires fueled by dry and windy conditions are burning in dozens of communities across Massachusetts as crews continue to work around the clock to extinguish the flames.
A haze is gripping communities along the North Shore, South Shore, South Coast, Worcester County, and western Massachusetts. Plumes of smoke can be smelled and seen for miles.
Firefighters are working to ensure the flames don’t spread but incredibly dry brush has made it difficult in many areas, including Middleton, where at least 50 acres have been scorched near Upton Hills Road.
“The whole area just in the nearby streets is all very foggy and smoky, and every breath you’re getting that campfire taste and smell you know, it doesn’t feel like a lot of super fresh air,” said Kevin Szczechowicz, who works at Rizzo’s Pizzeria in town.
A fire in the nearby city of Salem has been burning off Highland Avenue since Saturday. Aerial video showed white smoke enveloping the area.
“I don’t anticipate this fire is going to be out anytime soon,” Salem Fire Chief Alan Dionne said of the blaze.
Some 100 acres of woodland around Spring Pond along the Salem/Lynn line have already burned.
A brush fire in Millbury claimed the life of a woman in the area of the Blackstone River Bikeway near Route 146.
A major challenge for firefighters has been the limited resources with so many other brush fires happening at the same time across the state, according to Middleton Fire Chief Douglas LeColst.
“Difficult terrain, hard to gain access, limited water supply,” LeColst said. “That makes resources kind of difficult to obtain given the fact that we’re kind of spread thin.”
While the fire continues to burn, residents say they may have to limit their time outside until fire crews can put out the flames.
North Shore residents are urged to keep their windows shut to prevent smoke from getting into their homes.
An interactive National Interagency Fire Center map shows dozens of other fires burning in areas near Haverhill, Brockton, Taunton, New Bedford, Worcester, Leominster, and Springfield.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for most of Massachusetts, according to the National Weather Service.
“The combination of recent dry weather and very dry ground will continue to make conditions favorable for wildfire development today,” the NWS said in a special weather statement. “Use caution when handling and disposing of ignition sources. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
Anyone who sees an active fire is urged to call 911.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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