photo courtesy of the Hawthorne Fire Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, as wildfires continue to blaze across New Jersey, including a significant fire near Route 287 in Pompton Lakes, the state has been put under a Red Flag Warning due to high wind gusts of up to 30 mph, creating “critical fire weather conditions.” The National Weather Service warns that low humidity, strong winds, and extremely dry conditions make for an elevated fire risk across the state and neighboring regions.
MESSAGE FROM THE RIDGEWOOD FIRE CHIEF
Central Dispatch has received many calls regarding the odor of smoke outdoors. Strong winds have caused smoke from the wildland fire in the Pompton Lakes/Ringwood area to drift across Bergen and Passaic counties.
If you have any further concerns, please call 9-1-1.
courtesy of the Ho-Ho-Kus Fire Department
Drought Conditions Heighten Fire Risks
The prolonged drought has left New Jersey without measurable rain for over a month, placing parts of the state in severe to extreme drought conditions. This has turned trees and vegetation into tinder, easily ignitable under current weather conditions. Although rain is forecasted for Sunday and Monday, bringing up to a half-inch of relief, these fires are an immediate and pressing threat.
Drought Warning Levels: What They Mean
- Moderate: Trees, fish, and water levels in reservoirs are affected.
- Severe: Water quality and tree health decline, with outdoor water use restricted.
- Extreme: Crop loss increases, and wells and rivers start to feel the impact.
Where New Jersey Fires are Burning
According to the website fireweatheravalanche.org, which tracks wildfire activity, eight fires are currently burning across New Jersey. The “Cannon Ball 3” fire in Pompton Lakes, impacting traffic on Route 287, and an 1,800-acre blaze in West Milford near Greenwood Lake Turnpike, are among the largest. The fires are affecting traffic, homes, and historical sites, including structures in the Long Pond Ironworks Historic District. Other reported fires include incidents in Rockaway Township, East Hanover, Gibbsboro, Surf City, and Cedarsville, with varying levels of containment.
courtesy of the USR Fire Department
courtesy of Park Ridge Fire Department
Staying Safe from Wildfire Smoke
As fires spread, the smoke is creating hazardous air quality, posing risks especially for children, pregnant individuals, and those with respiratory or chronic health issues. Here are some tips to protect yourself from wildfire smoke and reduce exposure:
- Monitor Air Quality: Stay updated on air quality through trusted resources like airnow.gov.
- Stay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed and use air conditioning with a high-efficiency filter, if available.
- Create a Clean Room: Set up a room with few windows and use a portable air cleaner for optimal protection.
- Limit Indoor Pollution: Avoid lighting candles, using fireplaces, frying meat, or smoking indoors to maintain cleaner air quality.
- Use N95 Respirators: If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 mask to filter out smoke particles.
Protecting Pets and Vulnerable Family Members
Smoke affects pets and people with health conditions alike. Watch for signs of respiratory distress in pets and limit their time outdoors. Vulnerable family members, such as those with asthma, COPD, or other chronic health issues, should be monitored closely, with medical help sought if symptoms worsen.
As we wait for rain to bring some relief, staying vigilant and prepared is essential. Follow local guidelines, and make plans to keep loved ones and pets safe from the impacts of wildfire smoke and ash.
photo courtesy of Harrington Park Fire
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