As raging fires once again envelop the country’s landscapes, a massive wildfire is still sweeping over 8,500 acres of forest land, forcing thousands to evacuate while threatening over 1,300 structures.
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Local residents had to flee with minimal preparation as the “Jones Road Wildfire” in Ocean County, New Jersey, roared through the drought-stricken region with surprising speed.
After an intense battle by firefighters, evacuation orders have finally been lifted despite the fire continuing to burn out of control across the protected wilderness area.
The massive wildfire, which has only reached 10% containment as of the latest update, prompted Acting Governor Tahesha Way to declare a state of emergency for Ocean County.
Despite the ongoing danger, authorities have allowed residents to return to their homes and reopened critical roadways including the Garden State Parkway and Route 9, which had been closed to facilitate firefighting operations.
Acting Governor Way stated:
“Yesterday, our State Forest Fire Service informed us of a wildfire in Ocean Township, Ocean County. Due to its accelerated growth, with an estimated burn of 8,500 acres, threatening more than 1,000 structures, requiring the evacuation of residents in the area, and the loss of power to over 25,000 residents, I am declaring a State of Emergency for Ocean County.”
The fire began in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area, part of the 1.1 million-acre Pine Barrens reserve that is historically prone to forest fires.
Strong winds gusting up to 25 mph contributed to the fire’s rapid spread, challenging firefighting efforts across the region.
Power outages affected approximately 25,000 Jersey Central Power & Light customers as utility companies shut down service to protect infrastructure and firefighting personnel.
“This is for the safety of crews battling the fire,” explained The Jersey Central Power and Light Company in a statement about the outages.
Local resident Debi Schaffer described the chaotic evacuation scene as “like a war zone” as she gathered her dogs to flee while her husband stayed behind with their chickens.
“I wanted to take them in the car with me; can you imagine 22 chickens in a car?” she said.
The environmental impact extends beyond Ocean County. Smoke from the wildfire is expected to drift throughout the Tri-State area, including the New York City metro region.
Moreover, air quality concerns remain even as the immediate threat to homes has somewhat diminished.
While Ocean Township officials reported no structural damage, Lacey Township has confirmed some property destruction, though complete damage assessments are still ongoing.
Despite recent rainfall that had temporarily relieved drought conditions in the area, the Pine Barrens remained dangerously susceptible to fire.
Within a week, this marks the second major forest fire in the region, raising questions about forest management practices and emergency preparedness in an area known for its fire risk.
In recent hours, cooler temperatures and lighter winds have aided firefighting efforts, but officials warn that the fire remains active and dangerous.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service continues to monitor the situation closely. It has scheduled regular updates as containment efforts progress in what has become one of the state’s most significant wildfires in recent years.
