Large wildfire rages at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ

A large wildfire has erupted at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey, affecting both Burlington and Ocean counties on Monday, October 21, 2024. The region, which is located roughly an hour from Philadelphia, is experiencing smoke fallout from the blaze that is primarily confined to the military base's property. Local residents are facing air quality issues due to the smoke, prompting the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS) to advise caution. Firefighters on the scene are employing back-burning techniques as a preventive measure to control the spread of the fire. However, it appears that the NJFFS does not have active crews assisting with the ongoing wildfire, indicating a potentially limited response capacity at this time. While the situation is being monitored, officials expect the fire to remain within the confines of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, suggesting a controlled outlook despite the potential for air quality deterioration in surrounding areas.