After a State of Emergency was declared last night for Orange County in the area of Greenwood Lake it looks like for the people effected there is some good news. The Jennings Creek Fire that is burning in New York and New Jersey in Sterling Forest and Greenwood Lake has been a struggle to contain.

The Orange County Government along with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) released news this afternoon that is encouraging for everyone hoping that the fire burning in the area of Greenwood Lake will soon be over. Overnight the NYS DEC Forest Rangers led volunteer crews on Burnout Operation which seem to be helping.

Burnout Operations at the Jennings Creek Fire Seem to be Helping

Fire lines reportedly held which means that the crews are making gains on controlling the fire which is estimated to be only 41% contained at the time the Orange County Government released their statement on Thursday. The majority of the fire is in the Sterling Forest State Park and according to the recent update in boxed in by fire lines.

SEE Also: Fire in Sterling Forest Effects Start of Regular Hunting Season

Fire Line in Sterling Forest
Orange County Government via Facebook
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One important thing to note as efforts continue, smoke will increase. When County Executive Steve Neuhaus declared his state of emergency last night he mentioned that the smoke is expected to be worse as they increase the amount of water they are able to put on the fire by helicopters. Tomorrow this is expected to effect people in Tuxedo New York as they close line on that side of the fire.

Yesterday New York State Police and New York Army National Guard Helicopters dropped 166 buckets of water on the fire. Four helicopters; two Chinooks and two Blackhawks will be in the air today. The Chinooks will drop approximately 2,000 gallons/bucket drop. The Blackhawk helicopters drop approximately 600 gallons/bucket drop. (via Orange County Government Facebook)

 

Helicopter with Water Drop
Orange County Government via Facebook
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SEE Also: Upstate Fire Department Helps Battle Flames in Orange County

The Orange County Government is asking that people please share this information with friends and neighbors.

We encourage sharing this information and continuing to follow local official accounts for the most up to date and accurate information, including the New York State Park Police Facebook account, which will sending out verified information regarding the Jennings Fire. (via Orange County Government Facebook)

State of Emergency Declared in Orange County Near Jennings Creek Fire on Wednesday

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