Wildfire risk continues as dryness persists
A firefighter on the scene of a fire at Warren Grove in southern Ocean County in 2004. (Photo: New Jersey Forest Fire Service)
An enhanced risk of wildfire spread continues for most of New Jersey today, according to the National Weather Service.
“Relative humidity values around 30 percent this afternoon combined with very dry fuels will continue the risk for the spread of wildfires. Winds in general will be less than the past few days, with gusts between 10 and 15 mph,” a Special Weather Statement advises.
The bulletin covers most of New Jersey, excluding Passaic, Bergen, Essex, Union, and Hudson counties.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, North Jersey is currently within a “moderate drought,” while Central Jersey is classified as “abnormally dry,” which is the lowest intensity condition on the severity scale.
Since last weekend, numerous small brush fires have ignited throughout New Jersey. A fire burned through about 80-acres in a remote wooded area in Hamilton Township (Atlantic County) earlier this week. Officials say the blaze was accidential.
As Smokey Bear says, “Only you can prevent wildfires.” Here are some tips from him.
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