Wildfires Continue to Spread in Warren County

Youngsville VFD vehicles at Wildfire in Youngsville, PA

Wildfires and brush fires remain a significant threat in the region, with a recent blaze reported on Monday, November 4th in Youngsville along Matthews Run.

According to Youngsville Fire Chief Vern Edminston, the fire started at an oil well just after 1:30PM and quickly spread across 5 acres of land.

Six fire departments responded to the scene, including crews from Youngsville, Garland, Wrightsville, Sugar Grove, Star, and Pleasant Township. Thanks to the quick response of volunteer firefighters, the fire was contained with no structures at risk and no injuries reported.

This fire is just one in a series of wildfires that have been igniting throughout the county, fueled by persistent drought-like conditions. With warm temperatures and gusty winds forecasted to continue, fire officials are urging heightened vigilance.

Jay Lindemuth, PA DCNR Fire Forester, warned that with the leaves gone and no significant rainfall in sight, fire danger is at an all-time high. “Now with all the leaves off of the trees and still no rain, we are at an elevated fire danger."

DCNR Forest District Manager, Cecile Stelter commented, "On at state-wide level, we are actually at a preparedness level of four out of five, which is the highest we've been in years."

Authorities are advising residents to avoid burning leaves or debris until rain arrives. Instead, they recommend using mulching devices or leaf blowers to manage yard waste.

Local firefighters and representatives from the US Forest Service and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources continue to monitor the situation as more fires remain a risk across the county.