Smoke from the forest fire pillows near the joint base Saturday, March 30, 2019. (Photo: Daniel Nee)
A forest fire that has raged for more than a day near the border of Ocean and Burlington counties in the pine barrens has charred 10,000 acres but is also under greater control by firefighters.
The office of Gov. Phil Murphy told reporters Sunday afternoon that the fire is now about 75 percent under control, aided by light rain and drizzle – a stark contrast to Saturday’s dry, breezy conditions that helped the fire spread.
“First responders are working quickly to limit further expansion,” said Murphy. “The cause is under investigation and we remind all of those in and around the affected area to remain vigilant, and heed the instructions of safety officials.”
The Department of Environmental Protection and State Police remain on alert, and Murphy said his office is “grateful for the swift response of the brave men and women who have been working tirelessly overnight to contain the fire to prevent injury and loss of life for our residents.”
