Massive Wildfire in New Jersey’s Pine Barrens 50% Contained

OCEAN TWP., N.J. (AP) — A fast-moving wildfire in New Jersey‘s Pine Barrens has consumed over 13,000 acres and is currently 50% contained, officials said on Wednesday night. The blaze, identified as the Jones Road Wildfire, erupted on Tuesday and is expected to grow as dry conditions persist.

According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, as of Wednesday, the fire has charred 13,250 acres. Local authorities have declared a State of Emergency due to the ongoing situation. Forecasted rain may provide some relief this weekend, but until then, firefighters are focusing on containing the fire.

“These fires will persist for a long time until we get soaking rainfall,” said John Cecil, assistant commissioner for state parks, forests, and historic sites. “The Forest Fire Service will work the edges to keep it contained, but full suppression requires substantial rainfall.”

Officials reported that while no injuries have been confirmed, the flames threatened up to 1,320 structures at one point. Fortunately, no homes have been lost, but one commercial building and several outbuildings were destroyed.

As of Wednesday morning, evacuation orders have been lifted, allowing residents to return home, though caution is advised due to lingering smoke in the area. The Garden State Parkway and Route 9 have reopened, but some closures remain in effect.

The fire, which began near the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area, quickly spread into Ocean and Lacey townships, prompting the evacuation of around 5,000 residents. One resident, Debbie Schaffer from Waretown, expressed her anxiety, stating, “It’s a little scary. I didn’t have an emergency bag packed and I was kind of walking in circles knowing I had to get out.”

The smoke from the wildfire is so dense it is being detected by radar, prompting an air quality alert in South Jersey. The area experienced severe drought conditions prior to early spring rains, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

As of 2025, this wildfire could potentially be the largest in New Jersey in two decades. In a related update, the Vineland Wildfire in Cumberland County is 80% contained, with 1,327 acres burned.