Ocean County, NJ – April 23, 2025 – A rapidly growing wildfire in New Jersey has scorched over 11,500 acres, prompting a state of emergency and threatening more than 1,000 structures in Ocean County. Known as the Jones Road Wildfire, the blaze remains only 30% contained as of Wednesday morning, according to officials.
Fueled by dry vegetation and low humidity, the wildfire ignited around 9:45 a.m. ET on Tuesday and spread aggressively overnight. Fire crews were first alerted after smoke was spotted from the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower near Barnegat Township. Despite a swift response and aerial support, the fire surged from 10 acres to thousands within hours.
“This could become the largest wildfire in New Jersey in the past two decades,” warned Shawn LaTourette, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. He praised the tireless efforts of firefighters for preventing a major catastrophe, adding that no injuries have been reported.
State of Emergency and Mass Evacuations
Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, acting in Governor Phil Murphy’s absence, officially declared a state of emergency in Ocean County early Wednesday, unlocking additional resources to combat the flames.
The wildfire’s location—south of Toms River near the Garden State Parkway—forced the closure of one of the state’s busiest highways after flames jumped across the roadway Tuesday evening. Thousands were ordered to evacuate from Ocean and Lacey Townships, with over 5,000 residents fleeing their homes.
Evacuee Kelly Mendoza described seeing “everything covered in black ashes,” while another resident, Michael Ferrara, recounted the terrifying decision to evacuate as smoke filled his neighborhood. “It was a very eerie feeling… the first thing that went through my mind was keeping my family safe.”
Widespread Impact and Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
More than 100 firefighters are currently battling the blaze from both ground and air. Officials say the fire has already triggered forced power outages affecting 25,000 customers, with smoke visible for miles in areas like Bayville and Forked River.
The cause of the wildfire is under investigation, according to Chief Bill Donnelly of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Weather conditions remain a critical factor, with gusty winds up to 20 mph expected through the morning. However, calmer conditions and a potential for rain by Friday night may aid containment efforts.
Conclusion
The Jones Road Wildfire marks a severe start to the wildfire season in New Jersey, underscoring the risks posed by dry weather and high winds. As officials work to fully contain the blaze by this weekend, residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay informed through local emergency updates.