NJ Forest Fire Service: 120th Anniversary

I am very greatful for the long service of the NJ Forest Fire Service in keeping us as safe as possible from wildfires. The NJ Forest Fire Service was established on July 4th, 1906.

Direct link to July 4th post on Facebook from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service

Drought Monitor (Oct 15th) for New Jersey

 I'd like to thank the anonymous poster who commented in the post I made on October 18th that there is a severe drought (D2) affecting portions of the Pine Barrens in NJ. I considered sharing the drought monitor map in yesterday's post but did not. Drought is one of the factors that can lead to an increased risk of wildfires. 

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Elevated Fire Danger on Nov 18th

Elevated fire danger today. 

 

Here is the Fire Weather forecast for November 18th from the National Weather Service at Mt Holly:

Fire Weather Planning Forecast
National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
406 AM EST Sat Nov 18 2023

.DISCUSSION...
Breezy and dry conditions are expected to develop today. Forecast 
minimum relative humidity during the daytime hours is near 30-40% 
for much of the forecast area, driest across the coastal plain of 
southern New Jersey and Delmarva. High temperatures will be mainly 
in the 50s and near 60 degrees near the coast, though temperatures 
may fall a few degrees by mid to late afternoon. This will be 
combined with sustained winds near 15-20 mph and gusts near 30 mph. 

Rainfall from overnight was generally 0.05" or less from near and 
northwest of I-95, and only some sprinkles fell southeast into 
southern New Jersey and Delmarva. Antecedent conditions have been 
quite dry, with little to no rainfall over the last several weeks. 
Thus, there is an elevated threat for the spread of uncontrolled 
fires today.

Sunday will also be on the breezy side, although not quite as dry or 
as windy. Forecast sustained winds will be near 10-15 mph with gusts 
near 20 mph and minimum relative humidity in the 35-45% range on 
Sunday. High temperatures mainly in the mid 50s.

A Special Weather Statement will be issued for the areas with 
greatest fire danger to highlight the threat of rapid fire spread 
today.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: June 7th, Elevated Risk for Fire Spread and Air Quality Alert

 While fire weather conditions in New Jersey have improved a little since yesterday's (June 6th) Red Flag Warning, the National Weather Service at Mt. Holly issued a Special Weather Statement on the elevated risk for fire spread. As we have been a tad dry for the three to five weeks, I am not surprised to see that we remain under an elevated risk for fire spread. 

Speaking of Red Flag Warnings, I have to concede that while I am pretty good at following my National Weather Service Forecast Office in Mt. Holly for daily weather forecasts as well as their fire weather forecasts and Red Flag Warnings, it was not until yesterday afternoon that I fully realized how well publicized Red Flag Warnings are. That is I was reminded by someone in the know about fire weather that broadcast media and other media mention Red Flag Warnings in their daily forecasts and that local fire companies are alerted to Red Flag Warnings. While I am not in a position to know when Red Flag Warning alerts are sent to local fire companies, Red Flag Warnings and other warnings and advisories issued by the National Weather Service are easily available if you know where to look. So I am changing my daily routine to check in with local broadcast media in addition the NWS for my daily weather forecasts. I also started checking in daily with the weather app on my smart phone which links to what they call alerts from the NWS. Todays alerts on my weather app included the special weather statement below as well as an air quality alert due to smoke from the wildfires in Canada.

Air quality will be very poor today due to the smoke and haze from wildfires in Canada. It is recommend to limit time and any exertion outdoors. Wearing a mask may help limit irritation of the respiratory system if you must spend time outdoors today. #PAwx #NJwx #DEwx #MDwx pic.twitter.com/A4EgSHFbL3

— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) June 7, 2023

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

511 AM EDT Wed Jun 7 2023

DEZ001>003-NJZ001-007>010-012>023-027-PAZ054-055-060>062-070-071-

101>106-080000-

New Castle-Kent-Inland Sussex-Sussex-Warren-Morris-Hunterdon-

Somerset-Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Eastern Monmouth-Mercer-Salem-

Gloucester-Camden-Northwestern Burlington-Ocean-Cumberland-

Atlantic-Cape May-Southeastern Burlington-Carbon-Monroe-Berks-

Lehigh-Northampton-Delaware-Philadelphia-Western Chester-

Eastern Chester-Western Montgomery-Eastern Montgomery-Upper Bucks-

Lower Bucks-

Including the cities of Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown, Newton,

Washington, Morristown, Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick,

Freehold, Sandy Hook, Trenton, Pennsville, Glassboro, Camden,

Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Holly, Jackson, Millville,

Hammonton, Cape May Court House, Wharton State Forest,

Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Reading, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton,

Media, Philadelphia, Honey Brook, Oxford, West Chester,

Kennett Square, Collegeville, Pottstown, Norristown, Lansdale,

Chalfont, Perkasie, Morrisville, and Doylestown

511 AM EDT Wed Jun 7 2023

...ELEVATED RISK FOR FIRE SPREAD TODAY...

A combination of low relative humidity, breezy west to northwest

winds, and dry fine fuels will lead to an elevated risk for fire

spread with any potential fire ignitions today.

Minimum relative humidity values this afternoon will range from

20-25% across the area. West to northwest winds will increase to

around 10-15 mph with gusts up to 20 mph possible. Fuel moistures

are very low, with much of the region having not experienced a

widespread wetting rainfall in over 5 weeks.

Residents are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential

ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be

sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses,

dead leaves, and other tree litter that ignite will have the

potential to spread fire quickly.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions,

and wildfire prevention and eduction, please visit your state`s

forestry or environmental protection website.

$$

Staarmann

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Fire Weather Forecast (May 17th)

On May 15th, I wrote about the danger of conditions that are ripe for extreme fire danger this week. The expected fire weather danger turned into real fire weather danger yesterday, March 16th, with Red Flag Warnings in southern New Jersey and an elevated risk of fire danger for the rest of the state. These same fire weather conditions continue today, March 17th with Red Flag Warnings continuing for much of southern New Jersey and an elevated risk of fire danger in the rest of New Jersey (covered by a Special Weather Statement issued bo the National Weather Service). 

Obtained on May 17, 2023 at 11:30 AM from https://www.weather.gov/phi/

000

WWUS81 KPHI 171335

RFWPHI

URGENT - FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

935 AM EDT Wed May 17 2023

NJZ017>020-022-027-180000-

/O.CON.KPHI.FW.W.0005.000000T0000Z-230518T0000Z/

Gloucester-Camden-Northwestern Burlington-Ocean-Atlantic-

Southeastern Burlington-

935 AM EDT Wed May 17 2023

...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING

FOR GUSTY WINDS AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR PARTS OF SOUTHERN 

NEW JERSEY...

* AFFECTED AREA...Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, Ocean and

  Atlantic counties, especially the Pine Barrens.

* TIMING...Through early this evening, with the driest conditions

  occurring this afternoon.

* WINDS...North 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 20 percent.

* TEMPERATURES...In the mid to upper 60s.

* IMPACTS...The combination of dry conditions, low relative 

  humidity and gusty winds will result in favorable conditions 

  for the rapid spread of wildfires today.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions

are expected due to a combination of strong winds, low relative

humidity and dry fuels. Any fires that develop may quickly get

out of control and become difficult to contain.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions,

and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state

forestry or environmental protection website.

&&

$$

Iovino/Gorse

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Fire Weather Forecast (May 15th)

The recent Cannonball2 Wildfire that burned 107 acres in Pompton Lakes (Bergen County) NJ this past weekend coupled with recent dry weather served to remind me that wildfires of any size, including larger wildfires, can happen at any time of year. Yes, for regular readers of this blog this is obvious. I admit that I do not check the fire weather planning forecast from my local weather service -- NWS Philadelphia/Mt. Holly -- on a daily basis, I do try to monitor my local fire weather forecast during dry spells but admit that I am sometimes prompted to do so by my friends from the NJ Forest Fire Service Section B10 and others from New Jersey on social media. For those of you who live in the region covered by the NWS Philadelphia/Mt. Holly, their fire weather forecast is updated twice a day and may be found here. Those of you who live elsewhere in the United States may find your local NWS Weather Forecast Office by going to the NWS Weather Forecast Offices (link current as of May 15, 2023).

My concern for this week is that there may be fire danger in New Jersey and adjoining areas later this week. So, I will be paying attention to the fire weather forecasts issued by the NWS Philadelphia/Mt. Holly and will follow-up as warranted. Please be safe and fire aware, the Smokey the Bear and Firewise webpages have tips on how you can prevent wildfires at your home. Check your local Forest Fire Service as well as your town and/or county for local regulations. For those of you in New Jersey, the NJ Forest Fire Service has a fire danger dashboard.

FNUS51 KPHI 151406
FWFPHI

Fire Weather Planning Forecast
National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
1005 AM EDT Mon May 15 2023

.DISCUSSION...

Relative humidity values are forecast to drop into the 25 to 30 percent range on Tuesday afternoon across the Poconos and far  northern New Jersey. A southwest to west wind 10 to 15 MPH with gusts around 20 MPH may result in a heightened fire weather concern at that time.

Wednesday appears to be our driest and breeziest day of the week. Minimum relative humidity values in the 20 to 30 percent range are expected for much of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and northern Delaware. A northwest wind 10 to 20 MPH with gusts of 25 to 30 MPH is anticipated.

Thursday is again forecast to bring dry condition in the afternoon. However, wind speeds should be only in the 5 to 10 MPH range from the northeast, becoming southeast to south.

Due to the expected conditions, we are planning to coordinate with our state fire weather partners this morning to check on fuel moisture levels and the potential need for any special fire weather products this week.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Red Flag Warning for NJ (11 AM to 8PM)

 

obtained  at 8:30 AM on April 19, 2023 from NWS Mt Holly

Fire Weather Planning Forecast 

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

554 AM EDT Wed Apr 19 2023

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

.DISCUSSION...

Low daytime relative humidity is forecast through the remainder of the week. Critical fuel moistures continue to dry out as we get further away from the most recent wetting rains. This will continue to result in fire weather concerns for the next few days, but especially for today as breezy conditions persist.

For today, conditions will be somewhat less significant compared to Tuesday in terms of winds. West to northwest winds will be sustained around 10 to 15 mph with frequent gusts around 20-25 mph. The winds will be on the lower end of the aforementioned spectrum for Delmarva. Relative humidity is forecast to fall to around 20% to 30% across much of the area. Some minimum values near 15% are possible across Delmarva. Forecast high temperatures are well into the mid to upper 60s across the area, and near 70 degrees across Delmarva.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for New Jersey, which is in effect from 11 AM to 8 PM today. A Special Weather Statement has been issued for our Maryland and Delaware forecast zones, since the current wind forecast does not meet Red Flag criteria for those areas. Additional coordination will be needed later this morning to determine if any fire weather danger products will beneeded for Pennsylvania.

For Thursday and Friday, relative humidity will continue to fall to around 30% across the area, although winds will be notably less around 10 mph during the daytime hours.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Elevated Fire Danger SE New Jersey

Fire Weather Planning Forecast

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

405 AM EDT Tue Apr 18 2023

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 8 PM EDT THIS

EVENING...

.DISCUSSION...

Showers and storms Saturday provided significant wetting rain for portions of the region, however we will continue to dry out through the middle of the week. Low daytime relative humidity is forecast through the remainder of the week along with breezy conditions and limited overnight recoveries persisting. This will continue to result in fire weather concerns for the next few days.

For today, west winds are expected to prevail around 15-20 mph across the area with frequent gusts in the 25-30 mph range. Peak gusts up to 35 mph will be possible across far southeastern Pennsylvania and across the coastal plains of southern new Jersey and Delmarva. Relative humidity is forecast to fall to around 20% to 35%, lowest across Delmarva and the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. High temperatures will range from the mid 50s in northern New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania to the mid 60s across the Pine Barrens and Delmarva. Overnight relative humidity recovery will be around 60% to 70% with a 10 mph west to northwest breeze persisting tonight.

The Fire Weather Watch for the eastern shore of Maryland was upgraded to a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect from noon until 8 PM today. Additionally, a Special Weather Statement was issued for portions of the coastal New Jersey (Atlantic, eastern Burlington, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties), where little rainfall has occurred in recent days. Collaboration with our state fire partners will determine if any additional products will be needed for today.

By Wednesday, conditions will improve somewhat compared to today. West to northwest winds will lessen somewhat to around 15 mph with gusts around 20-25 mph possible, however relative humidity is still forecast to fall to around 30% across much of the area.

Looking farther ahead, relative humidity will continue to fall to around 30% across the area both Thursday and Friday, although winds will be notably less around 10-15 mph.

 

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season - Busy Week

This has been a busy week for the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and various mutual aid local fire companies, in part due to the severe fire weather over the last three days that is continuing today, April 14th.

Fire Weather Planning Forecast National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ 10:06 AM EDT Fri Apr 14 2023

.DISCUSSION...

Another period of elevated fire weather conditions is possible today as dry and warm conditions continue. Min RH values will again drop into the 20-30% range across E PA and N NJ, with higher min RH values around 30-35% across S NJ and Delmarva. S SW winds around 10mph, with isolated gusts up to 15mph are possible through the afternoon. At this time, criteria does not meet Red Flag Warning, but we will be in contact with our partners later this morning to determine if a SPS is needed.

By this weekend, we will finally see some much needed rainfall, with amounts near a quarter of an inch. This may temporarily limit the risk of fire spread until early next week.

While I have been focusing on two major wildfires including the Kanouse Fire that is still burning, I am aware that many smaller but not insignificant wildfires and brush fires have burned this week. Unfortunately, I do not have a list of these fires, but I know that they were there. New Jersey Forest Service Wildland Firefighters assisted by local fire companies, some of which are volunteers have worked these fires. With the Kanouse Fire still burning in West Milford, I am not sure of the specifics of the availability of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service's contract airplanes or the NJFFS helicopters based in northern New Jersey. 

Kudos to all the firefighters working these fires. Thanks for your sacrifice to keep us safe.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Elevated Risk of Wildfires (April 13)

 Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
238 AM EDT Thu Apr 13 2023

DEZ001>004-MDZ012-015-019-020-NJZ001-007>010-012>027-PAZ054-055-
060>062-070-071-101>106-140000-
New Castle-Kent-Inland Sussex-Delaware Beaches-Kent MD-
Queen Annes-Talbot-Caroline-Sussex-Warren-Morris-Hunterdon-
Somerset-Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Eastern Monmouth-Mercer-Salem-
Gloucester-Camden-Northwestern Burlington-Ocean-Cumberland-
Atlantic-Cape May-Atlantic Coastal Cape May-Coastal Atlantic-
Coastal Ocean-Southeastern Burlington-Carbon-Monroe-Berks-Lehigh-
Northampton-Delaware-Philadelphia-Western Chester-Eastern Chester-
Western Montgomery-Eastern Montgomery-Upper Bucks-Lower Bucks-
Including the cities of Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown,
Rehoboth Beach, Chestertown, Centreville, Easton, Denton, Newton,
Washington, Morristown, Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick,
Freehold, Sandy Hook, Trenton, Pennsville, Glassboro, Camden,
Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Holly, Jackson, Millville,
Hammonton, Cape May Court House, Ocean City, Atlantic City,
Long Beach Island, Wharton State Forest, Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg,
Reading, Allentown, Bethlehem, Media, Philadelphia, Honey Brook,
Oxford, West Chester, Kennett Square, Collegeville, Pottstown,
Norristown, Lansdale, Chalfont, Perkasie, Morrisville,
and Doylestown
238 AM EDT Thu Apr 13 2023

...ELEVATED RISK OF WILDFIRE SPREAD THIS AFTERNOON INTO THIS
EVENING...

A combination of low relative humidity, westerly breezes, and dry
fine fuels will lead to an elevated risk for fire spread with any
potential fire starts Thursday afternoon and evening across
eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the eastern shores
of Maryland.

Minimum relative humidity values this afternoon will range from
22 to 26 percent across the region. Winds will be somewhat lighter
and not as gusty as the past couple of days. However, this
afternoon into early evening west winds will still be sustained 8
to 12 mph, and a brief gust to 20 mph cannot be ruled out. Fine
fuels in the form of dry or dead vegetation will be quite dry as
well, and conducive to fire starts and fairly quick fire spread.
This is particularly true in areas that have not received hardly
any rainfall in the last 10 days, across much of Pennsylvania to
northern and central New Jersey.

Residents are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential
ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be
sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses,
dead leaves, and other tree litter that ignite will have the
potential to spread fire quickly.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions,
and wildfire prevention and eduction, please visit your state`s
forestry or environmental protection website.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Major Wildfire in Manchester Township (Ocean County) and Fire Weather Watch

April 13, 12  PM

The Jimmy's Waterhole Fire has been contained, see my April 13th post for a report from the NJ Forest Fire Service along with some pictures.

April 12, 9 PM

The Jimmy's Waterhole Fire currently burning in Manchester Township remains at 3,859 acres with 75% containment. There are no more road closures. No injuries have been reported and no structures are threatened. Scroll down for earlier updates on this fire. Kelly Anderson of Wildfire Today reported on this fire in an April 12th post.

April 12, 4:30 PM

The Jimmy's Waterhole Fire currently burning in Manchester Township remains at 3,859 acres with 60% containment. Two Blackhawk helicopters from the New Jersey Air National Guard have been dropping on this fire. In an article just posted at 4:17 PM, New Jersey Advance Media reported on a 3 PM update from the NJ Forest Fire Service, unfortunately this excellent article is behind a paywall. I am a subscriber to the Star Ledger (a NJ Advance Media newspaper), I read that  Routes 539 and 70 remain open with only a couple of local roads remaining closed. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The NJ Forest Fire Service and Joint Base McGuire-Dix continue to fight the fire on the ground. No injuries have been reported.

This article from News12NJ is freely available and 6ABC in Philadelphia has updated their reports on the fire.

 

April 12, 10:30 AM

I listened to a 10 AM press conference where officials reported on the Jimmy's Waterhole Fire currently burning in Manchester Township, burning 3.859 acres. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service, Joint Base McQuire, and local fire companies responded to this wildfire. No injures have been reported  and no property has been damaged. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is optimistic that containment lines will hold. See this report from 6ABC and this update from NJ Advance Media for more information.

April 12, 8:30 AM

There were several wildfires across New Jersey yesterday. The largest of these is the Jimmy's Waterhole Fire that has burned 2,500 acres as of early this morning. Evacuations were in place yesterday evening and I understand from this 6ABC report that these evacuation orders have been lifted and residents are allowed to return to their homes and Routes 70 and 539 are now open.

Here are some earlier reports on the wildfires:

• News 12 report on fires in NJ
• Asbury Park Press report on Manchester wildfire
• NJ Advance Media on Manchester wildfire

Direct link to video taken by an ABC6 helicopter from ABC6 on YouTube

This wildfire is showing up on the NWS Mt Holly NJ radar.

The National Weather Service issued the following fire weather forecast on April 12

Fire Weather Planning Forecast

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

405 AM EDT Wed Apr 12 2023

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM EDT THIS MORNING

THROUGH THIS EVENING...

.DISCUSSION...

Southwest winds will usher a warmer and somewhat more `moist`

airmass into the region on Wednesday. That does not mean it will

not still be quite dry, from an RH standpoint. High

temperatures will be in the upper 70s to low 80s. Surface dew

points will also rise well into the 40s, though. Actually

trimmed those values back a little bit given where RH ended up

on Tuesday, and particularly the MOS and HRRR suggesting

dewpoints will not reach the upper 40s until the evening. Thus

despite the much higher dewpoints than Tuesday, with temps 5 to

8 degrees higher, MinRH values on Wednesday will range around

27 to 32 percent. Winds will be around 15 mph with 20 to 25 mph

gusts. A Fire Weather Watch is now in effect for the eastern

shores of Maryland and eastern Pennsylvania. That said, winds

may only occasionally gust to the 20 mph criteria, and RH looks

marginally near the 30% criteria, while 10-hour fuel moisture

is rumored to be somewhat marginal near 10% as well. Expect at

least an SPS will be issued for elevated fire weather conditons

for our entire area, and we will see after the morning

coordination with partners if a Red Flag Warning would be more

prudent for part of our area. In any case, all of this is

semantics to a certain degree; we had several wildfires in the

area on Tuesday, including a rather large one near Lakehurst, NJ

that continues to burn over 500 acres. While RH will be a little

higher than Tuesday, conditions will still be conducive to

wildfire starts and potentially rapid spread.

Conditions for Thursday and Friday are somewhat similar to

Wednesday. As both temperatures and dew points rise into the low

80s and upper 40s/low 50s respectively, forecast min RHs remain

steady around 30 to 35 percent for much of the region. Winds do

appear to be slightly lighter though with sustained winds

around 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 20 mph possible Thursday.

Winds are expected to be lighter still on Friday with winds

around 10 mph. As a result, meteorological conditions for fire

weather are marginal for Thursday and Friday. A Special Weather

Statement remains possible for either day.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: From the NJ Forest Fire Service about Peak Wildfire Season

 As we in New Jersey enter the peak wildfire season, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service issued a news release on April 3rd: Forest Fire Service Reminds Residents to be Careful with Fire as New Jersey Enters Peak Wildfire Season. It is worth the read, and I as a New Jersey resident do try to be mindful of what the NJFFS has written. Here are some of my take aways from this news release:

• New Jersey is experiencing more severe weather conditions including storms and drought that means a longer wildfire season.
• Residents should take steps to protect their homes, refer to Firewise for steps you can take to protect your homes. 
• New Jersey's wildfire season started early this year with 315 wildfires burning 919.75 acres through April 3rd including the 418 acres Governors Branch Wildfire in the Stafford Forge Wildlife Management Area in Ocean County.
• February was very dry, coming in at the eleventh driest since 1895.
• Most wildfires in New Jersey are caused by humans: “Ninety-nine percent of wildfires in New Jersey are caused by humans through accidents, carelessness, negligence and even arson,” said Greg McLaughlin, Administrator and Chief of the Forest Fire Service. “The Forest Fire Service works diligently with local communities to educate residents how to keep their homes ‘Firewise’ in areas with high wildfire risk.”
• There are things we can do prevent wildfires such as not disposing of cigarettes on the ground, be careful with fireplaces and wood burning stoves, thoroughly douse a camp fire, and be sure it is cold to the touch, teach children about fire safety, and keep matches and lighters away from children. See the news release for more ways we can help prevent wildfires.

2023 New Jersey Wildfire Season: Red Flag Warning (March 19th)

 

Dry February in New Jersey and increased wildfire danger

 I knew from my own daily rainfall observations from my rain gage (including melted snow) that February was on the dry side but it wasn’t until I saw a March 10 article by Amanda Oglesby from the  Asbury Park Press that I fully appreciated how dry it was in New Jersey, confirming my suspicions of the possibility of increased wildfire danger. 

“'Only 1.55 inches of rain and melted snow fell on the Garden State in February, which helped create a particularly dry forest in the Pine Barrens', Robinson said. It could worsen a wildfire season officials say is getting longer.

'That was the 11th driest February on record," he said. "We go back to 1895 (in years of weather records).’

Blustery, dry conditions helped fuel the wildfire in Little Egg Harbor this week, which was quickly contained by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service at 418 acres.

Fire officials also say wildfire season, which typically runs from mid-March to mid-June, has been expanding in recent years.

‘The last three, four years, we've been seeing wildfires in February and early March and mid-March," said Chief Greg McLaughlin of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.'"We're doing prescribed burning, and yet… we're stopping, and then we're responding to wildfires.’ (Oglesby, Amanda; March 10, 2023 Asbury Park Press"

The complete version from the Dr. Davide A. Robinson, the NJ State Climatologist reviewing February 2023 weather in New Jersey may be found on this page from the Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist.

While March seems to be getting off to a wet start according to my rain gage, who knows if the faucet will turn off leading New Jersey back to a dry period as the spring wildfire season in New Jersey continues. I applaud the wildland firefighters of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and the various firefighters from local fire departments who responded to wildfires through mutual aid. I urge homeowners in areas such as the New Jersey Pinelands that are especially prone to wildfires to take steps to protect their homes. New Jersey homeowners will find the Firewise Communities page from the NJ Forest Fire Service useful to make their home and property safer from wildfires, in particular there is a checklist of steps homeowners can take:

• Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles that could catch embers
• Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration
• Reduce embers that could pass through vents in the eaves by installing 1/8 inch metal mesh screening
• Clean debris from exterior attic vents and install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers
• Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows
• Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustable materials from accumulating
• Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors - mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles - anything that can burn
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches.

Abnormally dry in Northern New Jersey

 

This is the second week that the U.S. Drought Monitor has shown abnormally dry conditions in portions of Northern and Southern New Jersey. I know that in my corner of Northwest New Jersey we have had about one-half inch of rain since June 24th. Now I want to say up front that what there is no comparison to the extreme drought that many areas in the Western United States are experiencing. Still, there are things that we in New Jersey must consider until such time as we get some decent rainfall. To that end the New Jersey Forest Fire Service issued stage 2 fire restrictions for Northern New Jersey (Division A) effective June 14th.

As of 8 a.m. Thursday, July 14, campfire and agricultural burning restrictions will go in effect for the following counties:

Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Warren, Hopewell Township in Mercer County, Union, Hunterdon, Middlesex (north of Raritan River) pic.twitter.com/yyV00sdPTX

— New Jersey Forest Fire Service (@njdepforestfire) July 13, 2022

In addition to the noted restrictions on campfires and agricultural burning, it is good idea to be careful with cigarette butts. I don't care if you smoke, but please be careful where and how you dispose of your cigarette butt. In addition, even though it is summer and not fall, it is a good idea not to park your car over dried leaves and needles and to be careful that there are not metal parts dragging under your vehicle.

Finally, I want to conclude this post by embedding a video from CBS New York (dated July 15th) where they had a nice three-minute report about the fire danger in Northern New Jersey. I liked that they did this report to educate us in New Jersey about the impact of our abnormally dry conditions on increased fire danger.

Direct link to video on YouTube from CBS New York

 

2021 NJ wildfire season: enhanced fire danger in NJ (April 5-6)

Tanker 61 is on duty to fight wildfires as New Jersey and nearby locations in Delaware, Pennsylvania and the eastern shore of Maryland are experiencing enhanced fire danger today and tomorrow (April 5 and 6).

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ

634 AM EDT Mon Apr 5 2021

DEZ001>004-MDZ012-015-019-020-NJZ001-007>010-012>027-PAZ054-055-

060>062-070-071-101>106-060000-

New Castle-Kent-Inland Sussex-Delaware Beaches-Kent MD-

Queen Annes-Talbot-Caroline-Sussex-Warren-Morris-Hunterdon-

Somerset-Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Eastern Monmouth-Mercer-Salem-

Gloucester-Camden-Northwestern Burlington-Ocean-Cumberland-

Atlantic-Cape May-Atlantic Coastal Cape May-Coastal Atlantic-

Coastal Ocean-Southeastern Burlington-Carbon-Monroe-Berks-Lehigh-

Northampton-Delaware-Philadelphia-Western Chester-Eastern Chester-

Western Montgomery-Eastern Montgomery-Upper Bucks-Lower Bucks-

Including the cities of Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown,

Rehoboth Beach, Chestertown, Centreville, Easton, Denton, Newton,

Washington, Morristown, Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick,

Freehold, Sandy Hook, Trenton, Pennsville, Glassboro, Camden,

Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Holly, Jackson, Millville,

Hammonton, Cape May Court House, Ocean City, Atlantic City,

Long Beach Island, Wharton State Forest, Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg,

Reading, Allentown, Bethlehem, Media, Philadelphia, Honey Brook,

Oxford, West Chester, Kennett Square, Collegeville, Pottstown,

Norristown, Lansdale, Chalfont, Perkasie, Morrisville,

and Doylestown

634 AM EDT Mon Apr 5 2021

...Enhanced Danger for Fire Spread Today and Tuesday...

The danger for fire spread will increase across the region this

afternoon as relative humidity values drop into the low to mid 20

percent range and northwest winds gust 20 to 25 mph at times. This

combination of low humidity, warming temperatures, and gusty

northwest winds will produce favorable conditions for wildfires to

ignite and spread, especially this afternoon and early evening.

On Tuesday, relative humidity values will again fall into the low

to mid 20 percent range across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Northwest winds will be slightly weaker Tuesday, with gusts up to

20 mph at times.

Residents are urged to exercise caution handling any potential

ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be

sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses

and tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread

quickly.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restriction, and

wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry

or environmental protection website

2020 New Jersey wildfire season: May 19 wildfire activity & enhanced fire danger

May 20th, 5:04 PM

The NJ Forest Fire Service Section B10 webpage is reporting that as of this morning the Big Timber Fire has burned 2,107 acres after burnout operations and was at 95% containment


May 20th, 10:10 AM

I understand from a couple of knowledgeable friends who keep me in the loop about wildfires here in New Jersey that there is a major wildfire currently burning in the Winslow Wildlife Management Area in Winslow Township (Camden County). The Big Timber Fire was reported about 1:30 pm yesterday by NJ Forest Fire Service Fire Towers. High winds yesterday exacerbated firefighting efforts. NJFFS Section C6 is working the fire, conducting burn out operations. No structures are threatened and no evacuations have been ordered. As I write this, the fire has burned about 750 acres. NJFFS Section B10 is currently reporting on the fire on their webpage. ABC6 in Philadelphia is reporting on this fire with a video, last updated about 8 AM this morning. I will update this post later as conditions change. Bill Gabbert of Wildfire Today did is usual outstanding job on reporting on this fire, known as the Big Timber Fire, in his article of May 19, 2020.

My friend also told me that yesterday (May 19th) was a busy day for the NJFFS. I know no other details at the moment.

For the second day in a row, the NWS Mt. Holly has issued a Special Weather Statement for enhanced fire danger. I have copied today's Special Weather Statement below.

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
320 AM EDT Wed May 20 2020

DEZ001-MDZ008-012-NJZ001-007>010-012-013-015>023-027-201700-
New Castle-Cecil-Kent MD-Sussex-Warren-Morris-Hunterdon-Somerset-
Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Mercer-Salem-Gloucester-Camden-
Northwestern Burlington-Ocean-Cumberland-Atlantic-Cape May-
Southeastern Burlington-
Including the cities of Wilmington, Elkton, Chestertown, Newton,
Washington, Morristown, Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick,
Freehold, Trenton, Pennsville, Glassboro, Camden, Cherry Hill,
Moorestown, Mount Holly, Jackson, Millville, Hammonton,
Cape May Court House, and Wharton State Forest
320 AM EDT Wed May 20 2020

...ENHANCED RISK OF WILDFIRE SPREAD TODAY...

Low relative humidity, gusty easterly winds, and dry fine fuels
will create and elevated risk for the spread of wildfires today
through early this evening across much of New Jersey and far
northern Delmarva.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions and
wildfire prevention and education please visit your state
forestry or environmental protection website.

$$

MPS

Welcome to April and the 2020 spring wildfire season in New Jersey

This is the time of year that the spring wildfire season here in New Jersey kicks in. While I have no official word that we are in the spring wildfire season, I know from the years that I have been writing this blog that the spring wildfire season begins around the first week of April, give or take a few days. Last week we were a bit chilly with some days of rain.

We are in a new world with Covid-19. As I am always thinking and meditating on my friends who fight wildfires here in New Jersey on the ground and in the air, I am also wishing that all of you stay as safe as you can be during these times. While I know that you are dedicated to what you do, to keep us here in New Jersey safe from wildfires, please stay safe and well. At least as much as you can during these times. I know that you will respect whatever you are told to do on the fireline to adhere to any infectious disease protocols.

Today is a high fire danger day here in northern New Jersey. No special weather statements have been issued yet for increased wildfire danger in New Jersey nor have any red flag warnings been issued. I will post about it here if and when such watches and warnings are issued.

Fire Danger in New Jersey: April 6, 2020 (info in link below changes daily)
Obtained on April 6. 2020 from https://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/fire/firedanger-restrictions.htm

Fire danger continues in New Jersey and NYC metropolitan area

The National Weather Service in Upton, New York has issued a Red Flag Warning for today, April 4th, from 10 AM to 8 PM. Note areas in pink in the image below are areas under a Red Flag Warning. The Albany area of New York, the rest of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and southern New Hamphsire are also under Red Flag Warnings today. The areas in New Jersey with the light brown color are not under Red Flag Warnings but will see enhanced fire weather conditions which I will elaborate at then end of this post following the information from NWS Upton.

Stay safe everyone. Thanks to all the firefighters who will be working to keep all of us safe from wildfires today.

Image obtained on April 4, 2019 at 11:20 AM from https://www.weather.gov/okx/

Red Flag Warning

URGENT - FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service New York NY
427 AM EDT Thu Apr 4 2019

...CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR FIRE SPREAD...

CTZ005>012-NJZ002-004-006-103>108-NYZ067>075-078>081-176>179-
042015-
/O.UPG.KOKX.FW.A.0002.190404T1200Z-190405T0000Z/
/O.NEW.KOKX.FW.W.0002.190404T1400Z-190405T0000Z/
Northern Fairfield-Northern New Haven-Northern Middlesex-
Northern New London-Southern Fairfield-Southern New Haven-
Southern Middlesex-Southern New London-Western Passaic-
Eastern Passaic-Hudson-Western Bergen-Eastern Bergen-
Western Essex-Eastern Essex-Western Union-Eastern Union-Orange-
Putnam-Rockland-Northern Westchester-Southern Westchester-
New York (Manhattan)-Bronx-Richmond (Staten Island)-
Kings (Brooklyn)-Northwestern Suffolk-Northeastern Suffolk-
Southwestern Suffolk-Southeastern Suffolk-Northern Queens-
Northern Nassau-Southern Queens-Southern Nassau-
427 AM EDT Thu Apr 4 2019

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM THIS MORNING TO 8 PM EDT
THIS EVENING FOR SOUTHEAST NEW YORK...NORTHEAST NEW JERSEY...AND
SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT...

The National Weather Service in Upton has issued a Red Flag
Warning, which is in effect from 10 AM this morning to 8 PM EDT
this evening.

* Affected Areas...All of southeast New York, northeast New
  Jersey, and southern Connecticut.

* Timing...Late this morning into early this evening.

* Winds...Northwest 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. Highest
  winds across southern Connecticut.

* Relative Humidity...10 to 15 percent.

* Impacts...Gusty winds and very dry air will create conditions
  that may promote the rapid spread of wildfires if ignition
  occurs.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are expected or occurring. A combination of strong winds, low
relative humidity, and dry fuels will create a significantly
elevated fire growth potential.

The National Weather Service in Mt. Holly NJ has issued a Special Weather Statement for elevated fire risk this afternoon due to low relative humidity and occasional wind gusts. In the image below, the areas shaded in light brown are under the Special Weather Statement.

Image obtained on April 4, 2019 at 11:20 AM from https://www.weather.gov/phi/

Special Weather Statement

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
945 AM EDT Thu Apr 4 2019

NJZ001-007>010-012>015-020-026-042300-
Sussex-Warren-Morris-Hunterdon-Somerset-Middlesex-
Western Monmouth-Eastern Monmouth-Mercer-Ocean-Coastal Ocean-
Including the cities of Newton, Washington, Morristown,
Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick, Freehold, Sandy Hook,
Trenton, Jackson, and Long Beach Island
945 AM EDT Thu Apr 4 2019

...AN ENHANCED RISK OF WILDFIRE SPREAD THIS AFTERNOON...

Low relative humidity levels and occasional wind gusts near 20
MPH are anticipated for this afternoon in parts of northern and
central New Jersey. The expected conditions along with dry fine
fuels may create an elevated risk for the spread of wildfires.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions,
and wildfire prevention and education, please visit the state`s
environmental protection website.

New Jersey 2018 Wildfire Season: May 4th update

In regards to fire weather in New Jersey and environs, while it is still windy in southeastern Pennsylvania, southern and central New Jersey, eastern Maryland, and Delaware, higher relative humidities mean that there are not enhanced fire weather conditions. Here is a discussion of fire weather from the May 4th 12:40 PM  Forecast Discussion issued by the National Weather Service Mt. Holly New Jersey

FIRE WEATHER...
Southwest winds are forecast to increase to 15-20 mph with gusts
of 25-35 mph this afternoon. Minimum relative humidity values are
expected to be in the mid to upper 30s this afternoon across
southeastern Pennsylvania, southern and central New Jersey,
eastern Maryland and Delaware this afternoon. So despite windy
conditions this afternoon, an enhanced threat for fire spread is
not anticipated at this time. 

The passage of a cold front tonight will bring a chance of
showers and thunderstorms as well as cooler temperatures,
helping to further decrease the fire weather threat. Additional
shower activity is expected over the weekend.

Yesterday, May 3rd) there were smaller wildfires across the state. Tankers 61 (New Jersey Forest Fire Service Division C in southern NJ and 81 (NJFFS Division B, central NJ) each responded to a small fire in their respective Divisions. Tanker 81 responded to a small wildfire in Barnegat (Ocean County) New Jersey, see this article from the Asbury Park Press for more information. Tanker 61 responded to a small, 1 acre brush fire in Salem County making two drops. There were a few wildfires in northern New Jersey that the Huey helicopter (with bucket) from NJFFS Division A responded to. Thanks my friends for providing this information.