Jackson NJ Fire: A rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Shotgun Fire, is burning in the Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area in Jackson, New Jersey. As of Wednesday evening, the fire had consumed 175 acres of land, forcing evacuations and threatening dozens of homes in its path. Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which was 20% contained as of the latest update from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

The fire, which began around 12:17 p.m. on Wednesday near South Stump Tavern Road, quickly escalated due to dry conditions, high winds, and the ongoing drought. Firefighters initially struggled to find a containment point but successfully used backfiring techniques to slow the fire’s advance and protect nearby homes. The service employed bulldozers and fire engines to build fire lines and prevent the fire from crossing into residential areas.

By 5 p.m., the fire had grown to 75 acres, expanding to 175 acres by 8 p.m., prompting the evacuation of at least 25 homes. Firefighters managed to protect six homes on the west side of Stump Tavern Road by clearing a defensible space around them and using controlled burns to create a buffer zone. Despite the danger, local authorities have stated that the situation is under control, and evacuation orders were lifted by 9 p.m. Wednesday, allowing residents to return home safely. (Fire News Today)

“This has been a very intense fire, but our teams have worked incredibly hard to protect lives and property,” said Dale Carey, New Jersey Forest Fire Service incident commander. “We are hopeful that the fire will be fully contained by Thursday morning.”

The wildfire, which is part of a larger series of fires across New Jersey, has highlighted the critical fire risks posed by ongoing dry weather. In the past two weeks, 242 fires have broken out statewide, burning approximately 828 acres. New Jersey is under statewide Stage 3 fire restrictions, which ban open flames, including wood and charcoal fires.

With temperatures around 80°F and gusting winds of 25 mph, firefighting efforts are ongoing, and crews are using helicopters for aerial support to monitor the fire’s progress. The next update is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday. Residents in the affected area are urged to stay updated on the situation as authorities continue to monitor and manage the fire. (Fire News)

For families affected by the fire, the Jackson Senior Center has served as the evacuation point, with the Red Cross providing support. Local officials, including Mayor Michael Reina, have expressed hope for a swift resolution to the crisis, wishing for the safety of residents and the containment of the fire.

This wildfire marks a continuation of the alarming trend of increased fire activity in the region, as fire service officials emphasize the urgent need for rain to help curb the risk of further blazes.