Edgartown Firefighters Battle Refuse District Fire in Subzero Wind Chills

Photo by Edgartown Fire DepartmentFirefighters operate hose lines to extinguish a refuse fire as smoke rises in freezing temperatures.

Photo by Edgartown Fire DepartmentCrews work from elevated platforms to access burning materials at the refuse district.

Photo by Edgartown Fire DepartmentFirefighters advance lines along the edge of the refuse area during suppression efforts.

Photo by Edgartown Fire DepartmentAn Edgartown fire engine supplies water as crews battle the fire amid extreme cold conditions.
January 24, 2026— Edgartown Fire Department crews responded to a challenging early morning fire at the town’s refuse district on working in extreme cold conditions to bring the incident under control. Firefighters arrived to find a fire involving refuse materials, with heavy smoke visible across the site. Crews moved quickly to deploy hose lines and begin suppression efforts as wind chill temperatures dropped to approximately minus 6 degrees, creating difficult and hazardous operating conditions.
Despite the bitter cold, firefighters were able to contain and extinguish the fire efficiently, preventing further spread and damage. The cold temperatures required constant attention to equipment and safety, as freezing conditions can quickly impact hose lines, water supply, and firefighter mobility.
The department expressed its appreciation to the volunteers who responded and assisted during the incident, noting their dedication in answering the call under such harsh weather conditions.
No injuries were reported.