202-Acre Wildfire In Morris County Is Mostly Contained, Officials Say

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A wildfire in Morris County that has been burning since Thursday is now 85 percent contained as of Sunday evening, according to state officials. However, conditions across the state still favor fire spread due to strong winds and low humidity levels.

The Craigmeur Lookout Wildfire, burning in Rockaway Township, near Notch Road and Green Pond Road since Thursday night, grew to 202 acres over the weekend, according to an update from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

Fire crews will continue their efforts over the next few days to strengthen containment lines and address areas of concern until significant rainfall occurs to ensure public safety, officials said.

No structures are under threat as of Monday morning. Previously, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said the wildfire threatened 16 structures, with eight residences having been evacuated.

Officials warned that residents in and around Rockaway Township can expect to see smoke in the coming days unless heavy rainfall impacts the area.

Green Pond Road was previously closed in the Craigmeur Ski Area but reopened to motorists on Saturday night.

Outdoor fires have been prevalent in recent weeks, spreading quickly because of the region's worsening drought. Statewide fire restrictions continued Sunday, prohibiting charcoal fires and only allowing fires in elevated stoves that use only propane, gas, natural gas or electricity.

Officials are still investigating what caused the Craigmeur Lookout Wildfire.