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The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has made significant progress in containing the Microwave Wildfire near Jacobs Road in Rockaway Township, Morris County. The wildfire, which ignited on Saturday, has burned approximately 77 acres and is currently 70% contained.
The fire has threatened 13 structures, but no evacuations have been ordered. Local Morris County fire companies are actively providing structure protection to mitigate potential damage. Officials report that there has been no impact on residences, and all potentially affected residents have been notified of the situation by Rockaway Township Police. Jacobs Road remains closed to traffic as firefighting crews continue their containment efforts.
Firefighting resources deployed to the scene include hand crews and engines from the Forest Fire Service. On Saturday afternoon, a helicopter capable of dropping 350 gallons of water conducted 15 water drops to assist in suppressing the blaze. The cause of the wildfire is currently under investigation.
The fire ignited just days after state officials warned of "very high" fire risks throughout the state due to exceptionally dry weather. The National Weather Service issued a similar warning on Friday. Precipitation totals were 2 to 7 inches below average across the state over the last three months, limiting water levels at reservoirs and streams as well as moisture in the ground.