Introduction
Southern Ocean County is breathing a cautious sigh of relief as firefighters make progress against one of the largest wildfires in the region’s history. The blaze, which ignited Tuesday and rapidly consumed 11,500 acres, prompted a state of emergency declaration from Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way and forced thousands to flee their homes. While the fire remains active, officials report containment has reached 30%, evacuation orders have been lifted, and critical roadways like the Garden State Parkway and Route 9 have reopened. Here’s the latest on the crisis and its aftermath.
Key Updates as of Wednesday Morning
- Containment Progress: The Jones Road wildfire, now dubbed the “Ocean County Fire,” is 30% contained as of 11 a.m. Wednesday.
- Evacuations Lifted: All mandatory evacuation orders for approximately 5,000 residents in Lacey and Ocean Townships have been rescinded.
- Road Reopenings: The Garden State Parkway and Route 9, both closed Tuesday due to smoke and safety concerns, are now fully operational.
- Power Outages: Over 23,000 Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) customers in Barnegat and Waretown remain without electricity after preemptive shutdowns to aid firefighting efforts.
Fire Impact: Scale and Damage
The fire’s rapid growth—from 8,500 to 11,500 acres in less than 24 hours—underscored its intensity. While no homes were destroyed in Lacey, the blaze claimed one commercial building in the township’s industrial park, along with several outbuildings and vehicles. Officials confirmed no injuries but emphasized the fire’s threat to 1,320 structures at its peak.
Property Damage Snapshot:
- 1 commercial building destroyed.
- Multiple vehicles and outbuildings lost.
- Full damage assessments are ongoing.
Community Response and Challenges
Power Outages & Safety Measures:
JCP&L cut power to the Oyster Creek substation to protect firefighters, leaving thousands in the dark. Crews are working to restore electricity, but officials urge patience as safety checks continue.
Road Closures Still in Effect:
While major highways have reopened, avoid these areas:
- Route 532 (Wells Mills Road) between Route 72 and the Garden State Parkway.
- Bryant Road between Wells Mills Road and Route 539.
- Jones Road between Route 532 and Bryant Road.
What Sparked the Fire?
The cause remains under investigation, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Dry conditions, gusty winds, and unseasonably warm temperatures likely fueled the blaze’s spread.
Officials Urge Caution for Returning Residents
Lacey Mayor Peter Curatola praised the coordinated response, stating, “The fact that no lives were lost and no homes burned is a testament to the swift action of our emergency teams and residents.” However, officials warn returning homeowners to:
- Avoid damaged or smoldering areas.
- Check for structural hazards before entering properties.
- Monitor air quality due to lingering smoke.
Looking Ahead
The next update from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service is expected at 3 p.m. Wednesday. Crews will focus on strengthening containment lines and mopping up hotspots. Meanwhile, displaced residents are advised to contact local agencies for assistance with temporary housing or recovery resources.
How to Help and Stay Informed
- Donations: Support local relief efforts through organizations like the Ocean County Food Bank or Red Cross New Jersey.
- Updates: Follow the New Jersey Forest Fire Service on social media or visit NJ.gov for real-time alerts.
- Safety Tips: Review wildfire preparedness guidelines at Ready.gov.
Conclusion
While the worst of the Ocean County wildfire appears to be over, the road to recovery is just beginning. The community’s resilience, paired with the relentless efforts of firefighters, has averted greater tragedy. As investigations continue and power is restored, solidarity and vigilance remain vital.