Thousands evacuated as New Jersey wildfire rages on, major highways shut down

A fast-moving wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has scorched over 8,500 acres and forced the evacuation of more than 3,000 residents, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

The fire began Tuesday afternoon in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township before spreading into nearby Lacey and Ocean townships.

Officials say the blaze remains only 10% contained as of late Tuesday night.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for several neighborhoods, including Wells Mills Road from Bryant Road to the Garden State Parkway in Ocean Township and parts of South Barnegat Pines in Lacey Township.

A voluntary evacuation was issued for Pheasant Run in Barnegat, with shelters set up at local schools.

Over 1,300 structures are currently threatened. Jersey Central Power & Light cut electricity to approximately 25,000 customers due to fire danger, and damage assessments are ongoing.

Thick smoke from the wildfire shut down portions of major highways, including stretches of the Garden State Parkway, Route 9, and Route 532.

While no injuries have been reported, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fire officials warn the area is in a “high” fire risk zone and have banned drone flights over the affected region.

This is the second major forest fire in New Jersey in less than a week.

Authorities plan to hold a press conference Wednesday morning to provide updates on containment efforts and ongoing evacuations.