Jones Road Wildfire in New Jersey Grows to 19 Square Miles, 5,000 Residents Evacuated
Authorities lifted evacuation orders for thousands as the Jones Road wildfire continues to spread, authorities predict its size could grow further.
The Major NJ Wildfire Shows Unexpected Urban Areas Are at Risk
Scientific American
Evacuation orders lifted for thousands in New Jersey despite wildfire growth
Straight Arrow News
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
The Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County, NJ, has surged to approximately 19 square miles with 35% containment. Acting Governor Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency, enabling the evacuation of around 5,000 residents. Although many have returned home, officials warn the fire could expand due to persistent dry conditions. News reports indicate that rain forecasted later this week may assist containment efforts. Notably, one commercial structure burned, but no injuries have occurred so far. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and significantly, it is now considered possibly the second-largest wildfire in the state's recent history.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
- New Jersey authorities lifted a previous evacuation order for thousands of residents on Wednesday, April 23. The lifted orders come as a 12,000-acre fire continues to burn, and authorities say it could grow.
- Officials ordered roughly 5,000 people to evacuate in southern New Jersey, as more than 1,300 structures were at risk from the fire. However, authorities halted all evacuation orders Wednesday morning.
- Acting Gov. Tahesha Way on Wednesday morning declared a state of emergency for Ocean County, New Jersey.
Articles (16)
Center (9)
FAQ
The Jones Road Wildfire has grown to about 12,500 acres (approximately 19 square miles) with containment reported around 35% to 40% as of April 23, 2025.
Around 5,000 residents were evacuated at the height of the wildfire, but many evacuation orders have been lifted, allowing residents to return home.
One commercial structure was burned, but no injuries have been reported so far despite the threat to over 1,300 structures.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Rain is forecasted later in the week, which may help improve containment and reduce the fire's spread.
The Jones Road Wildfire is considered possibly the second-largest wildfire in New Jersey's recent history and could become the largest in 20 years if it continues to grow.
History
- 5M
2 articles
- 5M
4 articles
- 5M
3 articles