Firefighters are making progress on a massive wildfire that broke out in Bass River State Forest earlier this week, according to the New Jersey Forst Fire Service.
Officials say that the fire is now 80% contained and has consumed 5,000 acres of land.
Allen and Oswego roads remain closed, along with the Batona Trail.
No injuries have been reported, and officials say that no buildings are threatened.
[twitter]https://twitter.com/njdepforestfire/status/1664729568375087107[\twitter]
The fire began Wednesday afternoon in the area of Allen Road. The Timberline Campground was evacuated with about 40 people in addition to six other homes.
Parts of the Garden State Parkway were closed for a time on Friday due to the smoky conditions.
Bass River Township Mayor Deborah Buzby-Cope says she and 1,500 others who live in the area are thankful for the service of the firefighters.
“We can't thank them enough for coming and helping us out here. I know it's what they do, and they are really good at it…They just deserve all the credit keeping this within the box,” she said.
Fire officials say the dry conditions made battling the flames much harder. People with respiratory issues are advised to keep their windows closed and limit their time outside until the smoke conditions clear.
Trail and road closures inside Bass River State Forest are likely to remain throughout the weekend as firefighters continue to hope for a soaking rainfall.
