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A massive wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has forced the evacuation of over 3,000 residents as it spread to 8,500 acres by Tuesday evening (April 22). The Jones Road Wildfire, which began in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management area, was only 10% contained as of late Tuesday, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
The fire, fueled by strong 25 mph winds, threatened 1,320 structures and caused significant disruptions, including power outages affecting more than 25,000 customers. Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency effective Wednesday morning (April 23) as the fire continued to rage.
In Lacey Township, the blaze ignited three buildings in an industrial park, with one building deemed a total loss, according to Mayor Peter Curatolo. About 35 residents from an age-restricted community were evacuated to a shelter, but they were advised to find alternative accommodations quickly. Lacey Township police announced that evacuation orders had been lifted by Wednesday morning.
The fire also caused major road closures, including stretches of the Garden State Parkway and Route 9, though these roads were reopened by Wednesday morning. The fire's cause remains under investigation, but long-term drought conditions, strong winds, and warm weather have contributed to its rapid spread.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service planned to provide an update on the situation later in the day. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures and lighter winds offered some respite, although high fire danger conditions persisted in central and southern New Jersey.