New Jersey Declares Emergency as Wildfire Burns 8,500 Acres

New Jersey declared a state of emergency on Wednesday as the Jones Road Wildfire consumed over 8,500 acres (3,440 hectares) in Ocean and Lacey townships, Anadolu Agency reported. The blaze, which began on Tuesday, forced 3,000 residents to evacuate and threatened 1,320 structures.

Acting Governor Tahesha Way confirmed no fatalities or home damage occurred. By Wednesday morning, evacuation orders were lifted, allowing residents to return. The fire, initially 10% contained, spread near the decommissioned Oyster Creek nuclear plant, with local reports noting flames reached its buildings.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service attributed rapid containment efforts to coordinated emergency responses. The wildfire, fueled by dry conditions, marks one of the state’s largest in recent years. Authorities continue monitoring the area for flare-ups.

Wildfires in the northeastern U.S. have intensified due to climate-driven droughts. New Jersey’s emergency declaration enables federal aid access.