Trenton, New Jersey – 4 counties are conducting prescribed burns today through Saturday afternoon, producing smoke that may reduce visibility and impact air quality for drivers and residents. Fire crews are actively managing controlled burns across parts of the state.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, prescribed fire operations are scheduled in Burlington, Monmouth, Ocean, and Sussex counties. These controlled burns are designed to reduce dry vegetation that could otherwise fuel fast-moving wildfires, especially during periods of low humidity and gusty winds.
Smoke may drift across roadways including the Garden State Parkway, Route 9, and local county roads, particularly during shifting wind conditions. Drivers in South Jersey and coastal areas should be prepared for sudden drops in visibility and avoid areas where smoke is present.
Residents near burn zones may notice the smell of smoke or see active fire lines, which are expected and monitored by trained crews. Officials advise calling 911 only if fire activity appears uncontrolled or outside designated areas.
These operations are expected to continue through the daytime hours before tapering off this evening. Additional prescribed burns are likely through early spring as crews take advantage of favorable conditions to reduce wildfire risk heading into the warmer months.
