Scientists say global warming is making extreme weather events like droughts, wildfires and floods more frequent and intense.
Scientists say global warming is making extreme weather events like droughts, wildfires and floods more frequent and intense. AFP

KEY POINTS

  • The state fire service said some 3,000 residents have been evacuated so far
  • Over 1,300 structures are threatened by the fast-spreading wildfire
  • The local power provider has had to implement a 'forced' outage for around 25,000 customers

A wildfire in New Jersey expanded significantly from 3,000 acres to 8,500 acres within hours late Tuesday as firefighters worked to contain the fast-spreading blaze.

Thousands of people across Ocean County have been placed under evacuation notices amid concerns that the fire may spread further.

Jones Road Wildfire Triggers 'High' Fire Danger Risk, Multiple Road Closures

The Jones Road wildfire that's affecting the townships of Ocean and Lacey has grown significantly within just a few hours and is only 10% contained as of late Tuesday.

The fire started earlier in the day, but its cause remains under investigation, as per the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFS).

In its latest update before midnight, the NJFS provided the following updates:

  • Approximately 3,000 residents have been evacuated
  • Some 1,320 structures are threatened by the wildfire
  • Southern Regional High School has been opened to evacuees with pets
  • Bryant Road between Wells Mills Road (Rt. 532) and Rt. 539 is closed
  • Jones Road between Rt. 532 and Bryant Road is closed
  • Garden State Parkway between Barnegat Road and Lacey Road is closed
  • Both directions from Lakeside Drive to Rt. 532 are closed

The fire department also warned that there is high fire danger across multiple areas and advised residents in Ocean County to stay alert and monitor notices.

'Forced' Power Outage Implemented Along Oyster Creek Substation

JCP&L, an electric energy company serving residents in New Jersey, announced Tuesday evening that all lines "in and out of our Oyster Creek substation" have been de-energized at the request of the NJFP as firefighting crews battle the wildfire.

The company noted that power restoration will be determined largely by safety measures. Around two hours later, JCP&L said some 25,000 customers have been affected by the forced outage.

"We do not anticipate restoring power tonight," it said.

Footage Shows Extensive Reach of Wildfire

Videos and photos posted on social media by news outlets and residents show the expanding reach of the Jones Road wildfire.

One video showed police cars and firefighting trucks moving away from massive blazes in what is said to be an area in Waretown, New Jersey. International Business Times cannot independently verify the footage.

The next update from the fire department is expected sometime Wednesday morning.

Originally published on IBTimes