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Wildfires have caused significant disruption in New Jersey, with mandatory evacuations affecting homes in Ocean Township, Lakewood, and Lacey Township within Ocean County. The blaze ignited around 10 a.m. at the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area, and authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, by Tuesday evening, the wildfire had threatened approximately 1,320 structures and prompted the evacuation of about 3,000 individuals.
As of the latest reports, around 3,200 acres are ablaze, with containment efforts only achieving a 5% success rate. The fire has also led to significant traffic disruptions, including:
- Closure of Rt. 532 (Wells Mills Road) between Route 72 and the Garden State Parkway.
- Closure of Bryant Road between Rt. 532 and Rt. 539.
- Closure of Jones Road between Rt. 532 and Bryant Road.
However, the southbound Garden State Parkway has reopened between interchanges 69 and 63, and the northbound Parkway is now open between interchanges 74 and 80.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported to date. Firefighting efforts have included the deployment of both a helicopter and an airplane to deliver water directly onto the flames.
In terms of service impacts, Jersey Central Power & Light indicated that more than 25,000 customers experienced power outages at one point Tuesday evening due to the fire. The company noted that all lines associated with their Oyster Creek substation were de-energized at the Forest Fire Service’s request to ensure the safety of crews engaged in firefighting operations.
A spokesperson for JCP&L emphasized, “Safety is our top priority, and all restoration timing will be determined by the safety of firefighters, our crews, and the public. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.”
Officials have urged the public to refrain from flying drones within the fire zones, as these can interfere with aerial firefighting operations.
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