Large Brush Fire Continues to Burn in Salem, Massachusetts, Amid Ongoing Dry Conditions

A significant brush fire has been burning in Salem, Massachusetts, for several days, posing a persistent threat due to the ongoing dry and windy conditions in the region. The fire, which started on Saturday night, has engulfed over 100 acres of forest near a Walmart store on Highland Avenue between Cain Road and Old Village Drive.

Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, but the dry brush and breezy conditions have made it challenging to fully extinguish the fire. Salem Fire Chief Alan Dionne noted that the area has not seen a fire of this magnitude in about 15 years, and the accumulation of dry fuel on the ground has exacerbated the situation.

The fire has caused significant disruption, particularly with Halloween approaching and thousands of tourists expected in the area. Residents have expressed concern about the fire’s proximity to homes and businesses, and the visible smoke and haze have affected the local environment.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of wildfires across Massachusetts and the Northeast, driven by a near-record stretch without rain. In Millbury, a separate brush fire at an encampment resulted in the death of a woman, with the cause of the fire currently under investigation.

Other areas in Massachusetts, such as Middleton, Beverly, and Canton, have also experienced brush fires, highlighting the elevated risk due to the extremely dry conditions. Fire crews are working to contain these fires and mitigate any potential threats to local communities.