Extreme Wildfire Danger Looms as Temperatures Soar in New Jersey

Crews battle 160-acre blaze as state warns of extreme fire risk this week

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:49am

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A sweeping, dramatic landscape painting in muted tones of orange, red, and grey, depicting a massive wildfire raging across a vast, desolate expanse, the flames and smoke dwarfing any physical structures in the scene.As temperatures soar and drought conditions persist, New Jersey braces for an elevated risk of devastating wildfires that could threaten homes and businesses across the state.Jersey City Today

A 160-acre wildfire broke out in West Deptford, Gloucester County over the weekend, with smoke visible for miles. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is warning of extreme fire danger this week as temperatures rise and little rain is in the forecast. Crews have been conducting prescribed burns to eliminate brush and other sources of fuel on the forest floor that exacerbate forest fire risks.

Why it matters

With near record-breaking temperatures and very little rain, the risk of wildfires remains extremely high across New Jersey this week. Residents are being urged to exercise caution as the state faces an elevated threat of dangerous and fast-moving blazes that could threaten homes and businesses.

The details

The 160-acre fire in West Deptford was quickly contained by firefighters, but initially about 100 structures were threatened and voluntary evacuations were in place. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has been conducting prescribed burns to reduce the amount of brush and other fuel sources that could exacerbate the risk of wildfires as the hot, dry conditions persist.

  • The 160-acre wildfire broke out on Saturday in West Deptford, Gloucester County.
  • Crews were able to quickly contain the fire, but smoke could be seen for miles.

The players

New Jersey Forest Fire Service

The state agency responsible for managing and responding to wildfires across New Jersey.

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What’s next

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service will continue to monitor conditions and may issue additional warnings or take further preventative measures if the extreme fire risk persists.

The takeaway

With temperatures soaring and little rain in the forecast, New Jersey residents must remain vigilant about the heightened wildfire danger this week. Avoiding activities that could spark fires and heeding any official warnings or evacuation orders will be crucial to public safety.