Multiple Wildfires Spread Across New Jersey Amid Bone-Dry Conditions and Red Flag Warnings

New Jersey is grappling with a series of wildfires that have spread across the state, exacerbated by extremely dry conditions and gusty winds. As of November 9, 2024, at least four major wildfires were burning, stretching from the Philadelphia suburbs to the New York City suburbs and into the central and western parts of the state, including the Pinelands.

The latest wildfire broke out on Saturday morning near Cannonball Road in Pompton Lakes, Passaic County, threatening 55 structures and impacting Interstate 287 with smoke. Despite the threat, no evacuations have been ordered at this time.

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning due to hazardous fire conditions, including gusty winds and low humidity, which could rapidly spread fires. New Jersey has not received measurable precipitation in over a month, setting a new record for dryness.

Firefighters are stretched thin, with multiple fires burning simultaneously. The Bethany Run Wildfire, along the border of Burlington and Camden counties, has burned about 360 acres and is 75% contained. The Shotgun Wildfire in Jackson Township has burned 350 acres and is 90% contained, while the Pheasant Run Wildfire in the Glassboro Wildlife Management Area has burned 133 acres and is 50% contained.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reported that October was the busiest month on record, with over 8,000 acres burned in 1,200 wildfires this year. Fire crews have been working tirelessly with little rest, moving from fire to fire across the state.

There is a glimmer of hope with forecasted rain expected on Sunday into Monday, which could help alleviate the dry conditions and aid in containing the wildfires.