BERLIN, Conn. (WTNH) — Firefighters continue to battle the Hawthorne fire Wednesday, which has been burning for over a week now.

During a news conference at noon Wednesday, Josh Cingranelli of the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security said this type of large brush fire feels unique to Connecticut, but will soon become commonplace.

“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 night wasn’t much help as dry conditions and warm temperatures persist.

Ryan Hughes, chief of operations at the scene, said crews are now in the “snap out” phase of their response as they put water on hot spots to ensure they won’t be a problem in the future.

Every morning, they also clean their hand lines, which are meant to prevent the fire from spreading. Oak leaf litter made that process more difficult, Hughes said.

Berlin Fire Chief Jonn Massirio said in-state, out-of-state and national resources are all being used as more fires break out in Connecticut. Officials remind everyone that statewide burn ban is still in effect and not to light a fire outdoors until it rains.

A state of emergency has been declared due to fire weather conditions in Connecticut

Department of Energy and Environment officials said about 70 to 80 fires were being tracked nationwide Wednesday.

According to Massirio, a campfire caused the great brush fire in Berlin. He said it appeared to be more “careless” than malicious.

Officials continue to stress the need for the public to stay out of the area and up in the air as they continue to fight the fire.

A Wethersfield firefighter has died last week after a UTV overturned near the scene. Meriden police identified the firefighter as 66-year-old Robert E. Sharkevich. He was well-known and loved by his colleagues, according to officials.

Connecticut to receive federal assistance in response to Hawthorne fire. FEMA said it would cover 75 percent of emergency costs, including the use of air crews for water drops.

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