The Jones Road Fire in New Jersey, ignited by windy and dry conditions, has already engulfed 12,000 acres, more than typical yearly wildfire damage for the state. Amid an ongoing drought warning since November 2024, state officials had predicted an active fire season this spring. The forest fire has prompted evacuations in Ocean County and threatens numerous homes and businesses. Experts note that the Pinelands, where the fire originated, regularly experiences such blazes in spring due to the region's unique ecology and recent lack of rainfall.
State climatologist David Robinson noted that the Pinelands region, shaped by fire, typically experiences an active fire season in spring, making the Jones Road Fire not unusual.
Research ecologist Michael Gallagher emphasized that New Jersey's density leads to 'interface fires,' which start in populated areas, heightening the risk of wildfires.
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