New Jersey Wildfire Update: A wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has expanded to 1,200 acres, prompting mandatory evacuations. The Garden State Parkway is currently closed in certain areas while authorities address the Jones Road Wildfire, which began on Tuesday in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area near Barnegat Township. As of Tuesday evening, the fire remains completely uncontained, posing significant risks to nearby communities.
The quickly spreading fire has forced evacuations, closed roads, and is threatening several buildings. As of Tuesday evening, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service reported that 16 structures are at risk, and 16 homes have already been evacuated. No injuries have been reported thus far, and the investigation into the fire’s cause is still ongoing.
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The Ocean Township Police Department provided an update at 9 p.m. regarding the current wildfire events. EDT that teams from the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service and nearby fire departments are currently engaged in efforts to manage the wildfire.
“New Jersey state forest fire crews and local fire companies are on-site working to put out the wildfire. You may notice backfiring operations throughout the night. The authorities shared on Facebook that evacuations will persist until the fire is completely managed.
Officials also cautioned that as winds calm down overnight, smoke levels in the area will rise, which could make driving more difficult.
A significant wildfire in New Jersey has led to evacuations as it expands, with smoke levels rising due to calm winds. Authorities are urging caution as visibility decreases in affected areas. As the winds lessen tonight, smoke levels in the vicinity are expected to rise.
Evacuation Orders
Residents living on Wells Mills Road between Bryant Road and the Garden State Parkway in Ocean Township, as well as those near Route 9 in Lacey, are now under mandatory evacuation orders, while Barnegat Township advises voluntary evacuations, with a shelter established at Southern Regional High School.
As the fire advances northward, Barnegat Township is presently safe from any immediate danger. It is important for residents to stay alert and updated on the situation. However, we advise you to stay prepared in case the situation changes,” Barnegat police posted on Facebook.
Road Closures
The Garden State Parkway is closed between Barnegat and Lacey roads, affecting a 17-mile stretch of this major highway.
Route 532 (Wells Mills Road) between Route 72 and the Garden State Parkway
Bryant Road between Wells Mills Road and Route 539
Jones Road between Route 532 and Bryant Road
Route 9 from Lakeside Drive to Route 532 in both directions
Impact and Safety Concerns
More than 25,000 homes and businesses in Ocean County have lost power due to the fire and related safety measures.
Thick smoke and ash are affecting visibility and air quality in the region, with officials warning drivers to be cautious, especially as winds calm and smoke settles overnight.
Fire crews from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and local departments are using engines, bulldozers, helicopters, and air tankers to fight the blaze.
Live Map and Further Information
A live map showing the affected areas and ongoing evacuation orders is available for residents needing real-time updates.
Residents in the impacted areas should monitor official updates, heed evacuation orders, and exercise caution when traveling due to reduced visibility from smoke. The situation is evolving, and emergency services are actively working to contain the wildfire and protect the community
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