Fire experts: Weeks without rain in New Jersey causing wildfires to be more dangerous
Parts of the state were under a red flag warning Thursday afternoon due to the dry conditions.
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For most of the day on Thursday, forest fire officials were monitoring a nearly two-acre wildfire that started around 9 a.m. In a wooded area of Laurence Harbor near Cheesequake State Park. Around 6 p.m., they said it was 80% contained.
The cause is currently under investigation. Firefighters are extinguishing hotspots until they know it's safe.
John Rieth, with the Division of Parks and Forestry, told News 12 that the drought is making these fires more dangerous.
"It's been very dry for a very long period of time here in this part of New Jersey, so the organic layer underneath the trees is very dry and it's a challenge for us to deal with that,” Rieth says.
Fire crews are still keeping an eye out for hotspots in the aftermath of a wildfire that broke out in Rockaway Township on Friday. The 77-acre fire didn't threaten any homes, but Jacobs Road remains closed as of Thursday evening.
During this fall fire season and dry conditions, fire officials are asking residents to be extra cautious. If you smell or see smoke, call 911 or the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
