Brush Fire Risk Rises in Pennsylvania, Connecticut

Dry vegetation, low humidity and gusty winds are raising brush- and wildfire-spread concerns across parts of Pennsylvania, Connecticut and western Massachusetts. In south-central Pennsylvania, the National Weather Service warned of elevated fire-spread risk through 5 p.m. Friday, with northwest gusts of 20 to 30 mph after a prolonged dry spell. Connecticut officials rated fire danger high in all eight counties as nearly two weeks without measurable rain left leaves and brush dry, though the state is not currently experiencing drought conditions. In western Massachusetts, fire crews remain prepared and warn that prolonged dryness and wind can make fires spread quickly even in cooler weather. Officials urge people to avoid potential ignition sources, follow local burning rules and report fires promptly; dry conditions are expected to persist in Pennsylvania, with little rain forecast through Wednesday.