'New normal:' Official warns wildfires will become common as Hawthorne Fire continues to burn

Officials on the scene at the Hawthorne Fire provided an update on their work Wednesday starting at noon. Watch in the video above.

BERLIN, Conn. (WTNH) – Firefighters continued to battle the Hawthorne Fire on Wednesday, which has been burning for more than a week.

During a news conference Wednesday afternoon, Josh Cingranelli of the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security said these types of large wildfires feel unique to Connecticut, but will soon become commonplace.

“These types of events will become more common and this is all a result of climate change,” he said.

The Hawthorne fire in Berlin has been going on for over a week

Cingranelli said the little rain we got Tuesday evening “did nothing” to fight the fire as dry conditions and warm temperatures continue.

Ryan Hughes, chief of operations on site, said crews are now in the “clean-up phase” of their response, putting water on hot spots to ensure this will not be a problem in the future.

Every morning they also clean their handlines, which are intended to prevent the fire from spreading. The oak leaf litter has made this process more difficult, Hughes said.

State of emergency declared due to fire conditions in Connecticut

Berlin Fire Chief Jonn Massirio said in-state, out-of-state and national resources are all being used as other fires pop up in Connecticut. Officials remind everyone that the a national ban on burning is still in effect and no outdoor fires are allowed until it rains.

Department of Energy and Environment officials said about 70 to 80 fires are being monitored statewide on Wednesday.

According to Massirio, a campfire caused the great forest fire in Berlin. He said it seems “careless” rather than malicious.

Funeral service held for fallen Wethersfield firefighter

Officials are still emphasizing that the public should stay away from the area and the air as they continue to battle the fire.

A Wethersfield firefighter died last week after a UTV rolled near the scene. Meriden police identified the firefighter as 66-year-old Robert E. Sharkevich. Officials said he was known and liked by his colleagues.

Connecticut will receive federal assistance in response to the Hawthorne Fire. FEMA said it would cover 75% of emergency costs, including deploying aircrews for water drops.

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