A fast-moving wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has burned over 8,500 acres since April 22, 2025, prompting the evacuation of more than 3,000 residents.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, the blaze, which is only 10% contained, threatens over 1,300 structures.
The fire originated in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township and spread to Lacey and Ocean townships. Evacuation orders cover neighbourhoods like Wells Mills Road and South Barnegat Pines, with voluntary evacuations in Pheasant Run. Shelters are open at local schools.
🚨Mandatory evacuations are underway in a portion of Ocean Township, Ocean County New Jersey, due to a raging wildfire
Officials say residents on Wells Mills Road from Bryant Road to the Garden State Parkway are being asked to evacuate.
The fire has grown to 1,200 acres in size… pic.twitter.com/MWtb6uqYKt
— Wake Up NJ 🇺🇸 New Jersey (@wakeupnj) April 22, 2025Thick smoke has closed sections of the Garden State Parkway, Route 9, and Route 532. Jersey Central Power & Light has cut electricity to 25,000 customers to reduce risks. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, but the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Authorities have banned drone flights in the area and have designated it as a “high” fire risk zone..
This is the second major wildfire in New Jersey in a week. On April 23, a press conference will update the public on containment efforts and evacuations.
