**Reignited Campfire Sparks Major Brush Fire in Berlin, CT**

A brush fire, initially caused by a reignited campfire, has been ravaging the Hawthorne area in Berlin, Connecticut, since Monday. According to Berlin Fire Chief Jonn Masirio, investigations revealed that the fire was not malicious. It appears a camper or hiker inadequately extinguished their campfire, leading to the flare-up.

Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency on Friday addressing the severe fire weather conditions gripping the state. He emphasized the necessity of the declaration to provide state and local emergency management teams the tools to combat ongoing and future fires. The governor urged residents to avoid outdoor burning due to heightened fire risks.

Initially estimated at 100 to 110 acres, the blaze expanded to 121 acres due to strong winds on Thursday. Wind conditions have since lessened, but the fire continues to threaten the area, particularly around Lamentation Mountain and Sea Green Drive. Despite these threats, no evacuation orders have been issued.

Efforts to control the fire have been intensive, with around 127,000 gallons of water deployed over the past few days. The fire-fighting operation has involved three helicopters from the Connecticut National Guard and Maine, supported by UTVs and bulldozers. Aircrews conducted 88 water bucket drops on Thursday alone.

Funding from FEMA will help offset the estimated $330,000 cost of the firefighting efforts, following the approval of Connecticut's first-ever grant under FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant program. This grant will allow recovery of 75% of the expenses from federal sources, aiding in the state and local agencies’ continued efforts.

Interference from unauthorized aircraft, including drones and planes, caused operational delays as fire-fighting aircraft were grounded for safety. Nonetheless, emergency leaders remain optimistic. Masirio and Assistant Chief Brendan Noonan of the Meriden Fire Department reassured residents that current measures would stabilize the situation, weather permitting.

Crews, along with support from the Salvation Army and the local community, continue their united battle against the fire. Approximately 40-50 personnel are engaged in the effort, hoping to contain the fire by the weekend's end.

Stay tuned to Eyewitness News for further updates on this developing situation.