Risk of brush fires is high in Connecticut Friday amid drought, DEEP warns

Connecticut officials warned Friday that brush-fire danger was high across most of the state as drought and extreme heat combined to dry out vegetation ahead of the July Fourth holiday weekend.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said most of Connecticut was under a high risk for brush fires Friday, while Litchfield County was at moderate risk. The warning came as many communities prepared for holiday celebrations and outdoor activity that can increase ignition risk.

Dry conditions raise concern

The state’s elevated fire danger was being fueled by a combination of drought and intense heat. The U.S. Drought Monitor showed most of Connecticut in moderate drought, with small parts of the southeast and southwest in severe drought.

Separate Connecticut weather coverage said Friday’s heat index could reach about 110 degrees, adding to the drying conditions that can make grass, brush and other fuels easier to ignite.

Restrictions and safety guidance

DEEP’s daily Forest Fire Danger Report is the state’s official fire-danger advisory page. When fire danger is high, very high or extreme, brush-burning permits are not valid within 100 feet of grassland or woodland.

That guidance matters during the holiday weekend, when fireworks and outdoor burning can create additional ignition risks for homeowners, towns and visitors.

What to watch next

Fire-danger levels can change with weather and rainfall, so residents and local officials will be watching DEEP’s daily report through the holiday weekend.

If hot, dry weather continues, drought conditions could deepen and fire risk could remain elevated across the state.