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A wildfire erupted in the Peaslee Wildlife Management Area in Vineland, spanning 20 acres as of Friday afternoon (April 18). The fire remains 0% contained, with no structures currently affected. Firefighters are actively battling the blaze in this remote area, using water drops from aircraft to control the flames. Winds of 25 mph are complicating efforts to contain the fire.
Union Road has been closed between Route 49 and Mays Landing Road due to the fire. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is managing the situation, providing ongoing updates. According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the state experiences an average of 1,500 wildfires each year, damaging or destroying around 7,000 acres of forest.
The current fire in Vineland is part of a busy wildfire season in New Jersey. Earlier this year, the Scotland Run Wildfire in Franklin Township burned over 190 acres but was fully contained by the following morning. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is expected to hold a press conference to discuss wildfire season and drought conditions.
As the situation develops, residents are advised to stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service emphasizes the importance of not flying drones near wildfire zones, as they can interfere with firefighting efforts.