BERLIN, Connecticut – Firefighters across the Northeast were busy putting out wildfires that broke out in Connecticut and New Jersey in recent days as unusually dry conditions continued in the region.

“The lack of measurable rain is causing dangerous fires across the Northeast,” said FOX weather meteorologist Marissa Torres.

The FOX Forecast Center said dry brush was primarily responsible for the spread of the fires. However, winds and low relative humidity also help fuel the flames.

“Parts of Connecticut have reported less than half an inch of rain so far this month,” Torres continued. “As previously mentioned, no rain is expected this week.”

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Locating the wildfire in Connecticut is proving difficult for first responders

According to the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department, a large wildfire broke out on the west side of Lamentation Mountain shortly before 6 p.m. ET on Monday. When the fire was reported, officials said City of Berlin resources as well as the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Wildfire Division arrived on scene to begin extinguishing the fire.

Officials said an initial effort was to contain as much of the 10 to 15 hectare wildfire as possible before nightfall. However, due to the steep and rocky terrain, it was decided to keep fire operations “limited” overnight.

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The fire had been spreading toward the northeast at a slow pace since Monday night, and officials said resources had been deployed throughout the area to ensure the safety and security of residents.

Fire officials said there have been no evacuations and there are no plans to issue evacuation orders.

Firefighters from communities including Newington, Wethersfield, Rocky Hill, Cromwell, Westfield and Meriden were also on scene to provide additional support.

How terrain location affects wildfire behavior

Forest fires also occur in New Jersey

Wildfires were also reported further south along the busy Interstate 95 corridor in New Jersey.

“I think the only thing on our side is that the winds were under control. That would be a game changer,” said FOX weather meteorologist Britta Merwin. “Think about how many people live along the 95 corridor. In terms of population density, this is the busiest section of our entire country.”

A video shot in Rockaway Township, about 45 minutes from New York City, shows flames burning through the dry landscape as first responders work to put out the fire.

According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, the Morris County Microwave wildfire that broke out over the weekend is now estimated to be 77 acres in size and 85% contained. According to the fire department, at least three buildings were at risk, but no evacuations had been ordered.

The cause of this fire is currently under investigation and an update is expected Tuesday evening.

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New Jersey officials issue drought warning

This graphic shows recent drought conditions in the Northeast.

(FOX Weather)

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy issued a drought warning Thursday, urging residents and businesses to conserve water as the drought continues.

In a news release, officials said the state of New Jersey has experienced “significantly below-average precipitation over the past three months, which has contributed to declines in stream flow, reservoir and groundwater levels.”

Officials said the declaration of a drought watch was aimed at raising public awareness about the ongoing drought situation.

“While water conservation is always important, it becomes critically important during extended dry periods, such as those New Jersey has experienced throughout most of the summer and into early fall,” Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette said in the statement. “Voluntary water conservation now can help avoid more severe and restrictive measures in the future.”