Crime & Safety
Multiple Wildfires Break Out In South Jersey
The blazes have been contained, but dry conditions and heavy gusts have put the region at higher risk of wildfires spreading.
SOUTH JERSEY — Multiple forest fires broke out this weekend in South Jersey, fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds.
More than 40 acres burned in Gloucester Township, while a blaze in Pennsville Township reached 50 acres.
The Pennsville blaze broke out Saturday by Fort Mott Road. Initially, 12 structures (homes or buildings) were under threat, officials said. But crews had the fire mostly contained as of Saturday night, preventing any property damage, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
Find out what's happening in Gloucester Townshipfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Meanwhile, a large brush fire emerged around 9:30 p.m. Saturday by Erial Road and Primrose Lane in Gloucester Township.
More than 20 agencies from the local to state levels brought the blaze under control, preventing any injuries and property damage, police said.
Find out what's happening in Gloucester Townshipfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
South Jersey is at elevated risk of wildfires because of low humidity and gusts of 25 mph, the National Weather Service said on Sunday. New Jersey has also been under a drought warning since November.
During the fall, New Jersey faced historically low precipitation, which fueled wildfires throughout the state.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
