New Jersey wildfire consumes 8,500 acres as firefighters battle blaze
A fast-moving wildfire in New Jersey's Pine Barrens, known as the Jones Road Wildfire, has scorched 8,500 acres, forced thousands to evacuate, and caused temporary road closures, including parts of the Garden State Parkway.
A fast-moving wildfire erupted earlier this week in New Jersey’s Pine Barrens, triggering the evacuation of thousands of residents and leading to the temporary closure of major highways, including the Garden State Parkway.
The blaze, known as the Jones Road Wildfire, has already scorched about 8,500 acres and is threatening hundreds of structures as firefighters work tirelessly to contain the flames. As of Wednesday morning, the evacuation orders were lifted, and some roads reopened, but the fire remains active.
New Jersey wildfire forces thousands to evacuate
A rapidly spreading wildfire in New Jersey’s Pine Barrens forced the evacuation of thousands and led to the temporary closure of one of the state’s busiest highways earlier this week.
The fire, which started in Ocean and Lacey Townships in Ocean County, has burned approximately 8,500 acres (13 square miles). The blaze, named the Jones Road Wildfire, ignited late Tuesday morning and quickly spread, threatening over 1,300 structures. Nearly 3,000 residents were ordered to evacuate as the fire continued to advance.
Emergency responders, including crews from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, have been working around the clock, using bulldozers, air support, and ground crews to battle the flames. Despite their efforts, the fire was only 10% contained by Tuesday night.
In response to the evacuations, emergency shelters were set up at local high schools for displaced residents. Power was cut to approximately 25,000 homes and businesses to protect fire crews.
While some structures have been damaged, there have been no reported injuries. The fire’s cause is still under investigation.
The fire forced the closure of several roads, including a 17-mile stretch of the Garden State Parkway and other local routes. By Wednesday morning, some roads were reopened, though authorities urged caution.
The Pine Barrens, a vast 1.1 million-acre forested area, is prone to wildfires, particularly during peak season. The region remains susceptible to further fires due to dry conditions and strong winds, despite recent rainfall.
Utility companies have stated that power will only be restored once conditions are safe for both emergency workers and residents. Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation, with safety as their top priority.