Wildfire Burning At Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst

JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, NJ — A large wildfire is burning at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on Monday, sending smoke that is affecting residents of both Burlington and Ocean counties, authorities said.

The wildfire is "burning within the confines of the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst range," the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said. Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst straddles Ocean and Burlington counties.

The smoke drifting into Ocean County had prompted calls from residents to police in Manchester. Manchester police sent an alert saying the fire was not a threat to Manchester residents.

Forest Fire Service officials said firefighters at the base are back-burning to eliminate combustible leaves, dry weeds and brush ahead of the fire to stop the spread.

"The fire is expected to remain on Joint Base property," officials said. The forest fire service is not assisting right now, officials said.

"As always, if ever in doubt about the source of smoke or fire, call 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337)," officials said.