Unauthorized Sawmill Burn Ignites Amid Freezing Temperatures in Trenton

TRENTON, N.Y. — A dangerous unauthorized burn at an Amish sawmill sent flames roaring into the night sky Monday, as frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall hampered firefighting efforts in this rural town. The fire, which involved burning waste wood, occurred on State Route 365 between Mapledale Road and Korber Road.

The Barneveld Fire Department confirmed the burn was unauthorized and stated that fire trucks were unable to reach the scene due to recent heavy snowfall. Fire Chief Kevin Kalk emphasized that no nearby structures were threatened, as the fire primarily involved waste slabs from the sawmill.

“The burn was inaccessible for fire apparatus due to the snow,” Kalk said. “We are coordinating with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and local authorities to address the situation.”

The incident comes amid a severe cold weather advisory, with wind chills as low as 25 degrees below zero. The National Weather Service warned that such extreme conditions could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

Residents were urged to exercise caution while traveling outdoors and to wear appropriate clothing, including hats and gloves. The advisory remains in effect until noon EST today.

NEWSChannel 2 has reached out to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for further details on the burn and potential regulatory violations. No injuries or structural damage have been reported.