Firefighters in New Jersey are making significant strides in battling the Jones River wildfire, which is now 75% contained as of noon on April 28. The fire has scorched approximately 15,300 acres in the Forked River Mountains Wilderness Area, part of the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust.
Fire crews will remain on the scene for several days to strengthen containment lines and address any lingering concerns. Officials emphasize that they will continue their efforts until substantial rainfall occurs to ensure the safety of the public.
The wildfire first erupted on April 22, spotted at the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower around 9:45 a.m. That evening, the blaze crossed the Garden State Parkway, prompting the evacuation of about 5,000 residents from Ocean and Lacey townships. Early in the firefighting efforts, Route 9 and Route 532 were closed to ensure the safety of both residents and emergency responders.
So far, no injuries have been reported, but the fire has threatened several structures. One commercial building has been destroyed, along with damage to multiple outbuildings and vehicles. A complete assessment of the damage is currently underway.
In a related development, a 19-year-old man from Waretown has been charged with arson in connection with the wildfire. Joseph Kling allegedly failed to properly extinguish a bonfire made of wooden pallets, which led to the fire spreading. He was taken into custody and is awaiting a detention hearing.
Officials have also issued a warning about the risk of rapid fire spread across New Jersey and Delaware due to low humidity and gusty winds. The National Weather Service cautions that these conditions could make any new fires difficult to control.
Smoke from the wildfire is expected to linger until significant rain falls in the area. Visitors are advised to be cautious, as trees in the fire zone may be weakened.
As the situation develops, firefighters and officials continue to monitor the area closely, hoping for rain to help bring an end to the fire threat.