Jennings Creek Blaze: Firefighters Make Progress in Containing Wildfire
Firefighters were getting closer to taming a wildfire burning across the New Jersey-New York border, increasing their encirclement of the hard-to-access blaze.
Containment Efforts
The fire, named the Jennings Creek blaze, was 90% contained on the Passaic County, New Jersey, side of the border, and about 88% contained on the Orange County, New York side.
Fire Size and Impact
It had burned 7 1/2 square miles across the two states, although New York officials said that number is likely to increase somewhat in coming days.
Weather Conditions
Stronger winds were forecast for the weekend, which could complicate efforts to bring it under complete control. The forecast does not call for rain until Thursday, and firefighters said they will remain on the scene until significant rainfall occurs.
Tragic Loss
The blaze claimed the life of a New York parks worker who was assisting firefighting crews last week.
Investigation
The fire’s cause remains under investigation.
Update on Firefighting Efforts
New Jersey fire officials said they would no longer issue updates on the fire, barring serious unforeseen complications.
Background on Wildfires in the Region
Wildfires stretching across the New York-New Jersey border have been prolonged by dry conditions that make it all more difficult to contain the flames. State officials say New York has not seen a fire season like this since 2002, battling 60 wildfires statewide since Oct. 1.
Mourning the Loss of a Firefighter
On Sunday, firefighters mourned the loss of an 18-year-old NY Parks Department employee who died in the fire fight.
Conclusion
Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to contain the Jennings Creek blaze, despite challenging weather conditions. The fire’s cause remains under investigation, and firefighters will remain on the scene until significant rainfall occurs.
FAQs
Q: What is the current containment level of the Jennings Creek blaze?
A: The fire is 90% contained on the Passaic County, New Jersey, side of the border, and about 88% contained on the Orange County, New York side.
Q: How large is the fire?
A: The fire has burned 7 1/2 square miles across the two states, although New York officials say that number is likely to increase somewhat in coming days.
Q: What is the cause of the fire?
A: The fire’s cause remains under investigation.
Q: Will there be any further updates on the fire?
A: New Jersey fire officials said they would no longer issue updates on the fire, barring serious unforeseen complications.
