Brush Fire Erupts in Blue Hills Reservation Amid Dry Conditions

A large brush fire ignited on Monday at the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, Massachusetts, due to persistent dry conditions impacting the state. The fire began near Houghton’s Pond in the afternoon, prompting a swift response from local emergency services.

According to the Milton Fire Department, which engaged the blaze shortly after it was reported, the fire had expanded to approximately 41 acres by 5 p.m. Local officials cited strong winds as a significant factor in spreading the fire down the slopes of the reservation.

In response to the unfolding situation, several roads were closed, including Hillside Street, Unquity Road, and parts of Chickatawbut Road, disrupting traffic and affecting residents in the Milton area.

Karyn Lothrop, the District 4 Fire Warden, expressed concerns about the fire’s proximity to urban areas, stating, «This is actually pretty scary, to have this size fire here in more of a metropolitan area.» She indicated that about 50% of the blaze was contained but cautioned that efforts to fully control and mop up the fire would continue.

Despite the blaze’s proximity to Interstate 93, officials have assured commuters there is minimal risk of disruption for the Tuesday morning rush. Nonetheless, motorists have been advised to remain vigilant.

Firefighters employed «back burning» techniques to control the fire, a method that involves setting controlled fires to create barriers to stop the spread of the main fire. Two forestry task forces from Norfolk and Plymouth counties were also deployed to assist with the containment efforts.

The Brockton Fire Department further warned nearby residents of potential smoke and haze, as many in the area reported seeing and smelling smoke along Interstate 95.

Firefighting teams are expected to remain on-site overnight to monitor for potential flare-ups and ensure that hotspots are managed. Crews will resume their efforts with additional manpower on Tuesday morning.