Photo by Sergey Meshkov
A rapidly spreading wildfire in New Jersey has compelled the evacuation of thousands and led to the closure of a significant section of a major highway. The New Jersey Fire Service reported that the Garden State Parkway, one of the state’s busiest thoroughfares, was shut down on Tuesday between Barnegat and Lacey townships.
Over 1,300 structures were at risk, prompting the evacuation of approximately 3,000 residents, as stated by the fire service. Shelters were established at two high schools, according to the Barnegat Police Department. The Jersey Central Power and Light Company disconnected power for around 25,000 customers at the request of the Forest Fire Service and the wildfire’s command post on Tuesday evening, affecting many in Barnegat Township. The company announced on X that power restoration is not anticipated before Wednesday, emphasizing that this measure is for the safety of the crews combating the fire.
The blaze in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area has scorched over 34.2 square kilometers, according to fire officials. The fire, which is affecting Ocean and Lacey Townships in Ocean County, was reported to be only about 10 percent contained as of Tuesday night, according to the New Jersey Fire Service. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and there have been no immediate reports of injuries.
Debi Schaffer experienced gridlocked traffic while evacuating with her two dogs, as her husband chose to remain with their 22 chickens, as reported by The Press of Atlantic City. She expressed her desire to take the chickens with her, humorously questioning the logistics of transporting 22 chickens in a car. Describing the scene around her Waretown home, she likened it to a war zone, filled with smoke, sirens, and the sound of helicopters. Nearby, an alpaca farm reported via Facebook that their property was not in danger and that all animals were safe.
