Operations Continue On 15.3K Acre Jones Road Fire Still Burning

LACEY, NJ — The Jones Road Wildfire in Lacey and Waretown has burned 15,300 acres and is 75 percent contained as of Monday afternoon, according to authorities.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service said that there would be no further updates unless something significant occurs.

A varying amount of rainfall fell on the northern portion of the fire Saturday, while none to trace amounts fell on the southern portion, the Forest Fire Service said in a Sunday update.

Smoke continues to linger in the area and will do so until there is significant rainfall, authorities said.

Four structures remain threatened by the 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.

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.”

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.

Visitors to the area should be cautious as trees within the fire area could be weakened.

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