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UPDATE: Unhealthy Air Quality Levels Reported In North Jersey As New 1,800-Acre Wildfire Rages
Dubbed the "Cannonball 3 Wildfire," the blaze has expanded to 100 acres with no containment, as per the latest update from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. By late Friday night, Nov. 8, smoke from the raging Passaic County wildfire drifted as far as Fair Lawn, Hackensack, New Milford, Wyckoff, and more.
While the blaze was close to Route 287, it had not crossed the Wanaque River as of Saturday morning, Nov. 9, local officials said.
Firefighters were working around the clock to control the fire along Cannonball Road, but containment efforts have been hampered by dry conditions and shifting winds.
The EPA’s AirNow service shows deteriorating air quality levels in the region, with parts of New Jersey registering in unhealthy ranges for sensitive groups (click here to check your town's air quality). Health officials advise people with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children to minimize outdoor activities and stay indoors with windows closed if possible.
A Red Flag Warning was issued by the National Weather Service for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic, and Union counties through 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has warned that it may take several days to bring the wildfires under control, and they are monitoring conditions closely to ensure safety in the surrounding communities.
New Jersey is currently experiencing an increased risk of wildfires due to warmer temperatures, extended dry periods, and windy conditions. The elements have created a tinderbox environment, making forests and grasslands more susceptible to ignition.
In North Jersey, firefighters have also been battling the wildfire in Englewood Cliffs, which has been contained to 39 acres down from 119, the NJFFS said. Three other wildfires were being contained in Central and South Jersey (link at the top of this news article with details on all five).
Relief is on the horizon, as rain is expected on Sunday evening, Nov 10, which should help mitigate the fire risk and improve air quality.
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