A fast-moving wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has exploded in size, scorching over 8,500 acres and forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes.
The blaze, now dubbed the Jones Road Fire, erupted Tuesday in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township and continues to burn with only 10% containment.
More than 3,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as flames threaten neighborhoods and properties. Officials from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service say over 1,300 structures are at risk, although no injuries or deaths have been reported as of Tuesday night.
The wildfire has wreaked havoc on local traffic as well, prompting the closure of a major travel route. The Garden State Parkway, which runs north and south through New Jersey, has been shut down in both directions in the fire zone. Southbound traffic is being diverted at Exit 80, and northbound at Exit 63, causing massive delays.
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“Chaotic, traffic, can’t get nowhere, been stuck in traffic for three hours,” said Jake Willis, a frustrated driver caught in the gridlock.
Fire crews, including helicopters dropping water from above, are working tirelessly to control the fire. But with dry and drought-like conditions gripping the southern part of the state, the flames have been tough to contain. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Ocean County is under abnormally dry conditions, making it a “high” fire-risk zone.
As investigations continue into what sparked the blaze, officials urge residents in nearby areas to stay alert and follow any new evacuation instructions. Authorities are also asking drivers to avoid the area altogether to ease congestion for emergency responders.
With high winds and dry conditions still in the forecast, the coming days will be critical for firefighting teams trying to gain the upper hand.
