FEMA Funding Granted As NJ Wildfire Continues To Grow, Structures Remain Threatened

LACEY, NJ — The Jones Road Fire burning through Lacey and Waretown has reached 15,300 acres and 60 percent containment as of Friday evening, authorities said.

Emergency FEMA funding has been granted to assist response efforts, Sen. Andy Kim announced Friday afternoon. He spent Wednesday inspecting impacted areas.

“As I walked around the areas scorched by the fire, I wanted to ensure our brave firefighters and first responders had everything possible to help contain this disaster,” Kim said. “As Ranking Member of the Senate subcommittee that oversees FEMA, I’m grateful to be able to help bring federal support to help our state during a time of critical need.”

While the total amount of funding provided by FEMA won't be known until the fire is 100 percent contained, this grant will help with costs for equipment and supplies, alleviate costs for food and other aid needed by firefighters who are on the ground, and will help make sure first responders have what they need to fully contain the fire.

Four structures remain threatened by the growing blaze - a jump from the 1,320 structures threatened at the fire's peak.

All major roadways have since been reopened, though unimproved roads within the fire's perimeter are still closed.

Joseph Kling, 19, has been charged with aggravated arson and arson in connection with the fire. Authorities have not ruled out additional arrests.

Authorities anticipate that the fire will not reach full containment until Saturday, when rain is forecasted for the area.

A complete damage assessment is still underway. One commercial building in Lacey was completely destroyed, along with several outbuildings and vehicles. There have been no injuries or loss of life reported.

Additional reporting:

• Smoke Conditions From Ocean County Fire To Linger: Here's Why
• Waretown Man Accused Of Starting Jones Road Fire That Burned 15K Acres
• 12K Acre Wildfire Could Grow To NJ's Largest In 20 Years, Officials Say
• 10 Largest Wildfires In New Jersey's History: See Where They Burned, When
• Oyster Creek Owner Clarifies Plant Status Amid Wildfire In Lacey
• Stop Flying Drones Over NJ Wildfire, Fire Chief Says
• Support Surges For Responders Amid Jones Road Wildfire In NJ
• NJ Wildfire: Pictures, Videos Depict Damage As Fire Rages
• NJ Wildfire: New Map Shows Blaze Perimeter As 13K Acres Burn