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The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is working to contain fires in West Milford, Pompton Lakes, and Englewood Cliffs (scroll for details on each one).
AirNow.gov shows an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 171, or unhealthy, across North Jersey, as of 7:30 p.m., caused by the smoke that blanketed the region. Click here to see an active AQI map or click here to check your town's AQI.
Prolonged dry conditions, unseasonably warm temperatures, and strong winds have contributed to the uptick in wildfires locally. The National Weather Service says we have one more night of dryness before some relief.
Jennings Creek Wildfire - West Milford, Passaic County
The largest of the three fires, the Jennings Creek Wildfire, is burning in the area of Greenwood Lake Turnpike and East Shore Road, extending across the New Jersey border into Orange County, New York. Estimated at 1,800 acres with 0% containment, the fire threatens two residential structures and eight historic buildings in the Long Pond Ironworks Historic District.
East Shore and Beach Roads are closed, along with all trails in Long Pond Ironworks State Park and Tranquility Ridge. Fire engines, ground crews, and a Forest Fire Service helicopter with water-dropping capabilities are on-site as crews work to gain control over the fire’s spread.
Cannonball 3 Wildfire - Pompton Lakes, Passaic County
In nearby Pompton Lakes, the Cannonball 3 Wildfire has consumed 164 acres and is now 50% contained. This fire initially threatened 55 structures, though no evacuations have been required. Cannonball Road remains closed at DuPont Place, and the right northbound lane of Interstate 287 is also closed. Firefighters have made significant progress, with further updates expected by 8:30 p.m. Saturday evening.
Englewood Cliffs Wildfire - Bergen County
In Bergen County, firefighters have achieved 75% containment of a 39-acre wildfire burning near the Palisades Interstate Parkway in Englewood Cliffs. Although no structures are currently threatened, crews remain on the scene as dry conditions continue to pose a risk of flare-ups.
All three fires remain under investigation as authorities work to determine the causes. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has deployed extensive resources, including specialized water-dropping helicopters, and is urging residents to stay clear of affected areas and remain vigilant as conditions evolve.
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