New Jersey Wildfire June 2025: Timeline, Evacuations & Safety Tips

New Jersey Wildfire June 2025

The Jones Road Fire, a devastating wildfire in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey in late April 2025, has scorched over 15,300 acres, prompting large-scale evacuations and widespread concern. Here's a full timeline, safety tips, and advice to help you stay informed and protected.

---

🔥 Timeline of the Jones Road Fire

• April 22, 2025: Fire starts in the Pine Barrens near Jones Road, reportedly sparked by an illegal bonfire.

• April 24: Fire grows to over 1,200 acres with only 10% containment.

• April 27: Expands rapidly to 3,200 acres; arson investigation leads to a 14-year-old teen being charged.

• May 2: Containment reaches 40%, but dry conditions persist.

• May 10: Fire spreads to 15,300 acres—New Jersey's largest wildfire since 2007.

• June 1: Declared 100% contained after weeks of joint efforts by state and federal agencies.

Alt: NOAA satellite image of New Jersey wildfire June 2025 showing fire perimeter

---

🛑 Evacuations & Public Impact

• Over 5,000 residents evacuated from Ocean and Burlington counties.

• Temporary shelters set up by the Red Cross.

• Portions of the Garden State Parkway were temporarily closed.

• Smoke caused air quality alerts across New Jersey and parts of New York.

---

🛰️ Wildfire Monitoring & Risk Factors

• NOAA satellites and local drones helped track the blaze.

• Ongoing drought conditions and high winds increased the spread.

• NJ Forest Fire Service issued multiple Red Flag Warnings throughout May.

---

✅ Wildfire Safety & Evacuation Tips

If you're in a wildfire-prone area, follow these essential tips:

1. Pack a Go-Bag: Include N95 masks, water, documents, medication, phone charger.

   Buy N95 masks on Amazon

2. Create Defensible Space Around Your Home:

   • Remove dry leaves within 30 ft of home.

   • Store firewood 30+ ft away.

3. Prepare Your Car for Emergency Evacuation:

   • Keep gas tank half full.

   • Park facing out and keep keys nearby.

4. Seal Your Home:

   • Close windows and vents.

   • Shut off gas/propane.

5. Sign Up for Local Alerts:

   • Use NJWRAP (New Jersey Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal).

   • Check wildfirerisk.org regularly.

Alt: Defensible space fire safety zones for homes at risk of wildfire

---

🔧 Fire Prevention & Home Hardening Tips

• Use Ember-Resistant Vents: Prevent embers from entering attic spaces.

  Shop wildfire-safe home vents on Amazon

• Install Gutter Guards: Reduce fire fuel from dry leaves.

  Recommended gutter guard kits

• Use Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Avoid pine needles and cedar mulch close to the home.

---

🧯 After the Fire: What to Do

• Wear protective gear when returning home.

• Inspect for hidden embers and roof damage.

• Watch for flash floods and landslides due to scorched soil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What caused the New Jersey wildfire in June 2025?
A: The Jones Road Fire began in April 2025, reportedly caused by an illegal bonfire. A 14-year-old was later charged with arson.

Q2: Is the wildfire fully contained now?
A: Yes, the wildfire was declared 100% contained on June 1, 2025.

Q3: Which areas were most affected?
A: Ocean and Burlington counties saw the most severe impact, including evacuations and road closures.

Q4: How can I protect my home from future wildfires?
A: Maintain defensible space, install ember-resistant vents, use fire-resistant landscaping, and stay alert to local fire warnings.

Q5: Where can I find emergency supplies?
A: Essential items like N95 masks, fire-safe vents, and gutter guards are available on Amazon.

Q6: Are there any apps or portals for wildfire alerts in NJ?
A: Yes, NJWRAP and WildfireRisk.org provide updates, alerts, and risk assessments.

---

---

🧠 Final Thoughts

The Jones Road Fire is a stark reminder of how quickly wildfires can escalate. Stay alert, stay prepared, and protect your home and loved ones.

📢 Subscribe to RC News Update for real-time alerts and recovery info.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.