Overview

• The Jones Road Wildfire has burned more than 13,000 acres in Ocean County and is now 50% contained, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
• Evacuation orders for approximately 3,000 residents have been lifted, though the state of emergency declared by Acting Governor Tahesha Way remains in effect.
• The fire has threatened over 1,300 structures and caused power outages for 25,000 customers, with restoration efforts underway.
• Prolonged drought conditions and gusty winds have fueled the fire, raising concerns it could become New Jersey's largest wildfire in two decades.
• Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the wildfire while firefighting crews work to secure the area and prevent further spread.