New Hampshire fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for New Jersey - April 24, 2025

#### Overview
New Jersey is currently dealing with a significant wildfire in the Pine Barrens region, which has been impacting air quality not only within the state but also in neighboring areas, including New York City. The fire, sparked by an alleged act of arson, has highlighted the risks associated with dry conditions and uncontrolled fires.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** A fast-moving wildfire is actively burning in the Pine Barrens area of New Jersey. The fire has already grown to over 20 square miles (52 square kilometers) and is expected to continue expanding, particularly in unpopulated areas[2][3][4].
- **Active Fires:** The primary focus is on the wildfire in the Pine Barrens, which has led to the evacuation of approximately 5,000 residents. Although these residents have been allowed to return home, the fire remains active and is being closely monitored[2][3].
- **Structural Impact:** A commercial building and several vehicles have been destroyed, while 12 structures remain threatened as of the latest updates[3].

#### Key Details
- **Cause of Fire:** Authorities have charged a man with arson, alleging that he set a bonfire using wooden pallets and failed to fully extinguish it, leading to the wildfire[2][3].
- **Air Quality:** Smoke from the fire is affecting air quality in New York City, Rockland and Westchester counties, and Long Island's Nassau and Suffolk counties. Higher-than-normal pollution levels are expected, and residents are advised to go indoors to reduce exposure to potential health issues such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath[2][3][4].
- **Evacuations and Safety:** While the initial evacuations have been lifted, emergency personnel will remain on site for the next few days to monitor the situation and ensure public safety[2].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents in affected areas should be aware of the ongoing fire and its impact on air quality. It is advisable to stay indoors, especially for those with respiratory issues, to minimize exposure to smoke[2][3][4].
- **Precautions:** Given the dry conditions and high fire danger rating in several regions, including parts of New York, residents are urged to be cautious with any activities that could spark fires and to follow local guidelines and advisories[2].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection:** [www.nj.gov/dep/](https://www.nj.gov/dep/)
- **New Jersey Office of Emergency Management:** [www.ready.nj.gov/](https://www.ready.nj.gov/)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
- **Dry Conditions:** The region is experiencing dry conditions, which have contributed to the high fire danger rating. Residents should be vigilant about fire safety and follow any local burn bans or fire restrictions[2].

#### Prescribed Burns and Land Management
There are no current reports of prescribed burns or other land management activities in the immediate area affected by the wildfire. However, the ongoing situation highlights the importance of proactive land management to reduce the risk of high-severity wildfires.

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/ap-top-news/2025/04/24/smoke-from-growing-new-jersey-wildfire-to-affect-air-quality-in-the-new-york-city-area', 'https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/new-jersey-authorities-charge-man-with-arson-allege-sparking-of-pine-barrens-fire', 'https://www.local10.com/news/national/2025/04/24/smoke-from-growing-new-jersey-wildfire-to-affect-air-quality-in-the-new-york-city-area/', 'https://www.wsoctv.com/news/smoke-growing-new/OVCZZGWM6RDQ5LFIUTUCD5QZVY/', 'https://www.wsbtv.com/news/smoke-growing-new/OVCZZGWM6RDQ5LFIUTUCD5QZVY/']