A rapidly spreading wildfire has erupted in Barnegat Township, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, leading to mandatory evacuations and significant disruptions across the region. According to updates from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, the blaze has already consumed approximately 1,200 acres and remains completely uncontained as of the latest reports.

Evacuations Underway as Fire Threatens Homes

Authorities have initiated mandatory evacuations in several areas due to the severity of the wildfire. The most affected region is along Wells Mills Road, specifically between Bryant Road and the Garden State Parkway. Emergency crews are working around the clock to ensure the safety of residents in these zones.

So far, sixteen structures have been identified as being directly threatened by the advancing flames. As a precautionary measure, these properties have already been evacuated. Emergency management officials are closely monitoring conditions and have not ruled out the possibility of expanding the evacuation zones if the fire continues to spread.

Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area Engulfed in Flames

The wildfire has wreaked havoc on the local environment, particularly within the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area. Aerial images captured by news outlets and emergency aircraft show vast stretches of forest consumed by fire. Thick plumes of smoke are rising high into the sky, visible from miles away, creating hazardous air quality conditions for nearby communities.

The wildlife habitat, home to numerous species of plants and animals, is under severe threat, raising concerns among environmental officials and conservation groups. The impact on local flora and fauna is expected to be significant and may take months or even years to recover from.

Road Closures and Traffic Disruptions Affecting Thousands

In addition to the ongoing evacuations, the wildfire has caused major traffic disruptions across Ocean County. The Garden State Parkway, a key highway in the region, has been shut down in both directions near Exit 69 to facilitate emergency response operations and to protect motorists from potential danger.

Several local roads have also been closed to the public, including:

• Route 532 (Wells Mills Road) from Route 72 to the Garden State Parkway
• Bryant Road between Route 532 and Route 539
• Jones Road between Route 532 and Bryant Road

Commuters are being urged to seek alternative routes and to avoid the affected area entirely, if possible. Authorities have also issued travel advisories to inform the public of ongoing closures and detours.

Firefighting Efforts Intensify With Aerial Support

Firefighting crews are battling the flames with the support of both ground personnel and aerial resources. A helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft have been deployed to perform water drops over the fire to slow its aggressive spread. These aircraft are playing a crucial role in suppressing the blaze, especially in areas that are difficult to access by land.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far. However, emergency personnel remain on high alert as conditions are volatile and can change rapidly depending on wind patterns and weather.

Public Urged to Stay Clear of the Area as Cause Remains Unknown

Officials have strongly advised the public to stay away from the active fire zone and to refrain from any non-essential travel in the area. In particular, residents and visitors are being warned not to fly drones near the wildfire. Unauthorized drones can interfere with emergency aviation operations, posing a serious risk to firefighting aircraft and ground crews.

The cause of the wildfire is currently under investigation. Authorities have not yet determined whether the fire was caused by human activity, natural causes, or other factors.

As the situation continues to evolve, local agencies are working together to manage the emergency and ensure the safety of all residents in the affected areas.