Williamstown, Massachusetts — Governor Maura Healey activated the Massachusetts National Guard on Monday after a wildfire that began in New York spread into the state, officials said. The blaze has blackened roughly 157 acres in the Williamstown area, and state leaders dispatched Guard personnel to assist with aerial operations and support crews working in rugged terrain.
State response and conditions
Healey said the Guard will provide air resources to drop water on rocky, inaccessible sections of the fire where ground crews face safety limits. Boston 25 News Meteorologist Greg Perez said rain is not expected for several days, heightening the need for aerial firefighting and containment efforts.
“Our top priority is keeping people safe and giving our firefighters every resource possible to contain this wildfire,” said Governor Healey.
In a separate statement, Healey described the rationale for the Guard mobilization, noting the fire’s movement toward populated areas and the need to reach locations unsafe for ground crews.
“As this fire spreads toward homes, businesses and communities in Western Massachusetts, we’re activating the National Guard to provide critical support from the air and to reach areas that firefighters can’t safely access on the ground. I’m grateful to the firefighters, first responders and National Guard members who are working around the clock to protect our communities. We will continue to do everything we can to keep residents safe.”
Public guidance and next steps
Officials urged people to steer clear of the area and to give emergency personnel room to operate. Local authorities also advised residents to follow any evacuation orders or future guidance from public safety agencies as the situation evolves.
- Area burned: about 157 acres near Williamstown
- State action: National Guard activated to support aerial water drops and access difficult terrain
- Forecast note: meteorologist Greg Perez said no rain expected for several days
State and local fire agencies are conducting suppression and containment operations with assistance from the Guard. Residents were asked to avoid the fire area to reduce hazards and allow responders to move unimpeded.
Authorities did not provide additional casualty or damage figures in the statements released with the Guard activation. Public safety officials continue to monitor weather and fire behavior and will update the public as new information becomes available.
