New Jersey Forest Fire Service: Jones Road Wildfire is 65% contained; 15,300 acres burned
By 12 p.m. Sunday, firefighters said they'd contained 65% of the 15,300-acre wildfire that started burning on Tuesday.
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After a long week for residents living near the Ocean County wildfire, firefighters are hoping the weather will work in their favor. All week, those living in Lacey and Ocean Townships have been dealing with that strong, thick smell of smoke and extremely hazardous air quality.
Blankets of ash and ember across the Pine Barrens, overwhelming neighborhoods with smoke. By 12 p.m. Sunday, firefighters said they'd contained 65% of the 15,300-acre wildfire that started burning on Tuesday.
"This morning, you couldn't see ten feet ahead of you, that's how heavy the smoke was," said Waretown resident, Ramon Malave.
Neighbor Nick Marinelli said, "Hopefully, this fire is almost completely out. From what I've seen, a lot of it is pretty much done for, but it's still got a little heartbeat."
At this point, both residents and fire units are waiting on the same thing - rain.
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"We're praying we get a good soaking, something decent enough to put out whatever embers are still floating around," said Malave.
Saturday morning showers are expected to be light, but too light to make much of an impact, unfortunately. Saturday afternoon showing possible thunderstorms and lightning. Lighting could reignite the blaze. Chances are small. But officials say all it takes is a small spark.
"These fires have a capability of driving that energy and building off of themselves," said John Cecil, assistant commissioner of State Parks at NJDEP.
Sunday's weather won't be much help either - with wind gusts expected to pick up in the morning into the afternoon.
Joseph Kling, 19, of Waretown, has been charged with aggravated arson and arson in connection with the wildfire.
The investigation is ongoing.
