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(Rockaway, NJ) — The New Jersey State Forest Fire Service says a wildfire that broke out in North Jersey on Thursday evening is now 85-percent contained. The so-called Craigmeur Lookout wildfire erupted in the Green Pond and Notch Road area of Rockaway Township, quickly consuming about two-hundred acres. Fire officials say it’s producing a lot of smoke which isn’t about to be resolved until the area gets a lot of rain.
State firefighters have issued red-flag warnings to warn people not to start any outdoor fires. All of the state’s 21 counties are under an elevated risk for wildfires and the state forest service’s map shows South Jersey faces the greatest risk for wildfires. The state has not recorded any significant rain in five weeks.
New Jersey residents are being urged to conserve water as the entire state is under a drought watch. If conditions don’t improve, the state could impose emergency restrictions. So Governor Phil Murphy is telling residents to use less water in all aspects of their lives. That includes turning off water when brushing your teeth and only running washing machines and dishwashers when they’re full.
