🔥 Current NJ Wildfire Status – April 23, 2025
As of today, multiple wildfires are burning across South and Central New Jersey, driven by high winds and unusually dry conditions.
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Total active wildfires: 4
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Largest fire: Wharton State Forest (13,000+ acres)
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Containment status: 55% overall
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Air quality: Unhealthy in Camden, Burlington, and Ocean Counties
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Evacuations: Partial in Hammonton and surrounding areas
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS) and local fire departments are actively working to contain the flames, using a combination of aerial water drops and ground crews.
🌲 Where Are the NJ Wildfires Today?
1. Wharton State Forest Fire (Burlington County)
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Size: 13,000 acres
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Containment: 50%
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Threats: Structures, wildlife, and local power lines
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Evacuation orders: Issued for parts of Hammonton and Atsion
2. Bass River Fire (Ocean County)
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Size: 3,200 acres
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Containment: 60%
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Smoke impact: Moderate to heavy smoke across Route 9 corridor
3. Brendan T. Byrne State Forest Fire
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Size: 1,000 acres
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Status: Mostly contained
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Air Quality: Mild impact in Pemberton area
4. South Jersey Brush Fire Cluster (near Vineland)
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Size: 600+ acres combined
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Containment: 70%
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Controlled burns underway to prevent spread
🗺️ NJ Wildfire Map: Where the Smoke and Fire Are Spreading
Real-time maps show the smoke plume extending from southern New Jersey into parts of Pennsylvania and Delaware. Use the AirNow.gov website or apps like IQAir and PurpleAir for up-to-date smoke tracking.
📍 Pro Tip: Close windows and use HEPA filters indoors if you are in an affected smoke zone.
🌬️ NJ Air Quality Alerts – April 2025
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has issued a Code Orange air quality alert for much of the southern half of the state.
Counties under alert:
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Camden
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Gloucester
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Burlington
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Atlantic
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Ocean
Health tips:
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Limit outdoor activity
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Use N95 masks when outdoors
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Check on vulnerable populations, especially children, elderly, and those with asthma or heart conditions
🛑 Road Closures and Travel Alerts
Due to fire proximity and heavy smoke, several routes are either closed or under advisory:
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Route 206 near Atsion: Closed between Route 30 and Route 70
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Batsto Village Road: Restricted access
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Rt 542: Open with visibility alerts
⚠️ Travel tip: Use GPS apps with live traffic updates and listen to NJ 101.5 for emergency broadcast updates.
🚒 Firefighting Efforts and Response Teams
The coordinated response includes:
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Over 300 firefighters
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10+ aerial tankers
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Support from the New Jersey National Guard
Controlled burns are being strategically used to create firebreaks and reduce potential fuel in at-risk forested zones.
📢 What to Do If You’re in an Affected Area
If you're near any of the wildfire zones:
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Sign up for NJ Alerts via the NJ Alert System
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Prepare an evacuation kit (water, medications, documents)
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Keep your phone charged and gas tank full
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Follow instructions from emergency officials
✅ Important: Evacuation orders are mandatory once issued — do not delay.
📅 When Will NJ Wildfires Be Contained?
Fire officials estimate containment within 7–10 days, depending on weather conditions. Forecasts suggest rain by April 28, which could aid suppression efforts, but high winds remain a challenge.
📈 Why Are NJ Wildfires Increasing in 2025?
This spring has been exceptionally dry, with precipitation 30% below average. Combined with:
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Rising temperatures
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Accumulated dry underbrush
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Early seasonal winds
…it creates a perfect storm for wildfire ignition and spread.
Climate scientists note that New Jersey’s wildfire season is beginning earlier each year due to these compounding climate factors.
📰 Stay Updated: Resources and Live Coverage
Here are trusted sources for continued updates:
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New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS)
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National Weather Service Mount Holly
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New Jersey 101.5 radio and app
📌 Final Thoughts
As wildfires become a growing concern across New Jersey, awareness, preparedness, and real-time updates are crucial. Bookmark this article or share it with friends and family to help everyone stay safe.
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