A devastating wildfire in eastern New Jersey has ignited, consuming over 8,500 acres and prompting the evacuation of approximately 3,000 residents. The fire is primarily affecting the towns of Ocean, Lacey, and Barnegat, with 1,300 structures currently at risk. With fire containment at only 10% as of Tuesday evening, authorities have mandated evacuations in several areas. Dry conditions, strong winds, and a lack of rain contribute to the fire's rapid spread, raising concerns about power outages and air quality in the region.
The Jones Road wildfire was only 10 percent contained as of about 8 p.m. Tuesday, with more than 1,300 structures threatened and 3,000 residents already evacuated, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Authorities have issued mandatory evacuations for several areas, including in the area of Route 9 in Lacey Township and in the areas surrounding several roads of Ocean Township.
The Lacey Township police said "evacuations will remain in place until forward progress and control is obtained" in fighting the fires.
The region has been experiencing abnormally dry conditions that have developed since last fall, and no rain is forecast until Saturday.
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