Fire risk elevated across Massachusetts as deadly brushfire burns in neighboring state

MILTON, Mass. — The National Weather Service says there is an elevated fire risk in Massachusetts as a deadly wildfire continues to burn in Connecticut.

The combination of recent dry weather, gusty winds, and lower humidity makes conditions favorable for wildfire spread today in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, the NWS and National Fire Service said.

“Use caution when handling and disposing of ignition sources,” the NWS warned in a special statement.

Robert Sharkevich, a firefighter with the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department in Connecticut died Tuesday after a utility vehicle rolled over onto him Tuesday while he was fighting a brush fire on Lamentation Mountain in the town of Berlin, Governor Ned Lamont announced Wednesday.

“I am very heartbroken to learn the news of the tragic loss of Firefighter Sharkevich, who died while bravely and courageously responding to the brush fire at Lamentation Mountain in Berlin,” Lamont said in a statement. “His selfless dedication to public service and the safety of his community and the surrounding towns is nothing less than heroic.”

In New Braintree, Massachusetts, the Oakham Fire Department also battled a brushfire on Wednesday and a second one in Holden.

“Conditions are dangerously dry. Please remember no open burning and use caution discarding smoking materials,” the fire department said in a Facebook post.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation says a fire that broke out at Blue Hills Reservation in Milton on Sunday burned about two acres and is now about 70 percent contained.

The Bay State reminded residents that a permit is required from local fire departments to burn materials, and it’s only allowed from Jan. 15 to May 1. It’s also prohibited in 22 cities and towns include Boston, Worcester, and Lawrence.

The state has also placed patrols in wooded areas where the fire risk is considered high.

Wind gusts in Massachusetts could hit 30 mph on Thursday, fueling an increased possibility for fires, the Boston 25 Weather team said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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