Crews work to contain the Hawthorne fire as difficult conditions persist – NBC Connecticut

Authorities say more problems could potentially emerge this week and it could be months before the state is truly out of the woods when it comes to fire danger.

“We’re just trying to keep Connecticut residents safe,” said Rich Schenk, fire safety officer for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Burn bans are still in effect as the state battles dozens of fires.

Several new ones emerged Sunday, bringing the total to 111 being tracked statewide.

“Without rain, the earth becomes drier. The leaves are like walking on potato chips,” Schenk said.

Firefighters are battling a fire in Rocky Neck State Park that has burned about 46 acres.

The park remains closed for public safety.

There is promising news about the state’s largest fire, the Hawthorne Fire in Berlin.

“We’re going to move from the mop-up phase to the patrol phase during this week,” said Chief John Massirio of the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department.

The fire is now believed to be 50% contained after burning 127 acres.

But the coming days could bring warmer temperatures, gusty winds and more warnings.

“We are still going to remain vigilant. You know, they’re not going to lower our heads. You still need to be vigilant. All over the state. Conditions continue to remain dry,” Massirio said.

Crews from out of state were called in to help. They may be here until December or January.

“We’re going to need some kind of weather pattern that changes what we’re in until we get some southern moisture. I want to plan for the worst case scenario so the state is prepared, and I don’t want to be caught off guard,” Schenk said.

At least on the Hawthorne Fire, crews are hopeful that containment of the fire will be increased this week.