Fire officials: Ongoing droughts cause risk of wildfires in New Jersey
A rare “very high” fire danger level was issued in the middle of October.
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As dry weather continues through New Jersey, forest fire crews in the Pinelands are concerned about the potential for a major wildfire.
“These long beautiful days we've had here towards the end of the summer, low relative humidity, really dried out the forest fuels,” said Shawn Judy, supervising forest fire warden.
A rare “very high” fire danger level was issued in the middle of October. So far, crews fought only a few wildfires in September and October, but that could change in minutes.
“Be cautious smoking any smoking materials. We have some restrictions in place for the safety of our residents; safety of the forest resources,” said Judy.
Just how dry has it been? New Jersey state climatologist Dave Robinson says many areas have had little to no rain in the last six weeks, adding to the risk of wildfires.
“If we end up with less than a quarter inch of rain for the state on average for the month, it would be the driest month of any month on record. We are reaching near historic levels in terms of the absence of precipitation,” said Robinson.
Reservoir levels, although down, remain at adequate levels, says Robinson. But with Gov. Phil Murphy issuing a statewide drought watch, he says staying aware of the changing situations and conserving water at home is a good practice.
“We should always be mindful that our water resources, freshwater resources are finite, and we should use them prudently,” added Robinson.
Campers and hikers must now abide by stage two fire restrictions, which include no outdoor ground fires and no grills or stoves unless they’re elevated and powered by charcoal, electricity or gas.
Judy says the dangerous conditions will stay the same or get worse unless the region receives some much-needed significant rainfall soon.
