Temps to Soar: Wildfire Danger Extreme for New Jersey

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

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:50am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a massive wildfire raging across a vast, rugged terrain, the flames and smoke dwarfing any visible structures or objects in the scene.As climate change fuels more extreme weather, New Jersey's communities brace for an escalating wildfire threat that demands proactive prevention and preparedness.Jersey City Today

A 160-acre wildfire broke out in West Deptford, Gloucester County, as the New Jersey Forest Fire Service warns of extreme fire danger this week due to rising temperatures and little rain in the forecast. Crews were able to quickly contain the blaze, but initially about 100 structures were threatened and voluntary evacuations were in place.

Why it matters

Wildfires pose a serious threat to communities in New Jersey, especially as climate change leads to hotter, drier conditions. This incident highlights the need for proactive measures like prescribed burns to reduce fuel sources and the importance of public awareness and preparedness when extreme fire risk is present.

The details

The 160-acre fire broke out on Saturday in West Deptford. Smoke could be seen for miles and from both sides of the Delaware River. Crews were able to quickly contain the fire, but initially about 100 structures were threatened and voluntary evacuations were in place. 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.

  • The 160-acre wildfire broke out on Saturday in West Deptford, Gloucester County.
  • The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is warning of extreme fire danger this week as temperatures rise and little rain is in the forecast.

The players

New Jersey Forest Fire Service

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

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the growing threat of wildfires in New Jersey due to climate change, and the need for proactive measures like prescribed burns and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the risks to communities.