– Jones Road Wildfire prompts evacuations and highway closures
– Smoke from New Jersey blaze affects air quality in New York City
– Officials anticipate fire containment with upcoming rainfall
A rapidly expanding wildfire, known as the Jones Road Wildfire, has engulfed approximately 13,250 acres in Ocean County, New Jersey, leading Acting Governor Tahesha Way to declare a state of emergency. The blaze, which ignited on April 22 in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area, has threatened over 1,300 structures and forced the temporary evacuation of around 5,000 residents.
As of April 23, the fire was 50% contained. Favorable weather conditions, including cooler temperatures and reduced winds, are expected to aid firefighting efforts. Officials anticipate that forecasted rainfall later in the week will further assist in containment.
The wildfire has also impacted air quality, with smoke drifting into New York City and surrounding areas, prompting health advisories. No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
