State of Emergency Declared as Jones Road Wildfire Forces Thousands to Evacuate in Ocean County, NJ

A significant wildfire has been raging in Ocean County, New Jersey, prompting a state of emergency declaration by acting Governor Tahesha Way. The fire, known as the Jones Road Wildfire, began in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management area on Tuesday afternoon. By late evening, it had rapidly expanded to cover approximately 8,500 acres. This rapid growth has led to the evacuation of around 3,000 residents and has threatened over 1,000 structures in the vicinity.

The situation has been exacerbated by strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 25 mph, which have fueled the fire’s spread. Additionally, long-term drought conditions and warm weather have contributed to the intensity and speed of the wildfire. As a result, the fire has caused significant disruptions, including power outages affecting more than 25,000 residents in the area.

In response to the escalating crisis, mandatory evacuations were enforced overnight in Ocean and Lacey townships. The evacuations have led to traffic congestion as residents sought safety away from the affected areas. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has been actively working to contain the blaze, but the challenging weather conditions have made firefighting efforts more difficult.

Authorities are urging residents to stay informed through official channels and to comply with evacuation orders for their safety. The declaration of a state of emergency is aimed at mobilizing resources and support to manage the wildfire and its impact on the community. Efforts are ongoing to control the fire and minimize damage to properties and the environment.