NJ Wildfire Causes Evacuations: How to Prepare for Weather Emergencies
A massive wildfire in New Jersey led to evacuations, power outages, and road closures. The blaze reinforces being prepared before a weather disaster strikes. We'll show you a weather app to keep you alert and ready.
Massive New Jersey Wildfire Causes Evacuations
A massive wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has burned 11,500 acres, forced thousands of evacuations, and closed several roads. Shelters have been opened for evacuees, and 20 structures are still threatened.
As of Wednesday, April 23, at 11 am, the blaze has caused thousands of power outages and shut down multiple key roadways, leading to a traffic nightmare, NBC Philadelphia reported.
The "Jones Road Wildfire" began shortly before 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, at the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township, Ocean County, and spread to Lacey Township and Ocean Township.
As of late Wednesday morning, evacuation orders were lifted and a portion of the Garden State Parkway reopened. The fire was 30% contained, and the cause remains under investigation. No lives or homes have been lost, CNN reported.
Preparing for and Staying Safe During Weather Emergencies
Preparation can make all the difference when minutes matter in a fire emergency.
Before an Emergency
Here's how to be prepared for fires or any weather-related emergency.
1. Create an Evacuation Plan
Map out at least two escape routes from each room and designate a meeting point outside your home. Practice these routes regularly with everyone in your household, including in the dark.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Keep a ready-to-grab kit containing essentials: medications, important documents (in waterproof container), first aid supplies, flashlight, battery-powered radio, water, non-perishable food, cash, and a change of clothes. Store this near an exit.
3. Document your Valuables
Take photos of your belongings for insurance purposes and store these digitally in the cloud.
4. Stay Informed
Sign up for local emergency alerts on your phone and keep a battery-powered weather radio for updates when power fails.
What to Do During a Fire Evacuation and Other Weather Emergencies
Here's what you must do to stay safe when evacuating quickly during a fire or other weather emergency.
1. Act Immediately
When authorities issue evacuation orders, leave right away. Delay can be deadly.
2. Dress Appropriately
Wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, and take a bandana or N95 mask to protect against smoke inhalation.
3. Check on Neighbors
If time permits, knock on neighbors' doors, especially older people or those with mobility issues.
4. Follow Recommended Routes
Avoid shortcuts or blocked roads. Follow the evacuation routes provided by authorities.
If trapped: Close doors between you and the fire. Place wet towels under doors and cover vents to minimize smoke. Signal your location by calling 911 and placing a light-colored cloth in the window.
Stay low: If moving through smoke, crawl beneath it where the air is cleaner.
5. Never Return Until Cleared
Even if your home appears untouched, don't return until authorities declare it safe.
Remember: material possessions can be replaced — lives cannot. Prioritize safety above all else when seconds count during a fire emergency.
Be Prepared for Weather Emergencies with All Weather Mode: Weather Home
All Weather Mode isn’t just a weather app—it’s your go-to companion for staying informed and prepared for any weather situation.
This free app for Android is packed with features that make it indispensable:
Customizable Home Screen Layout
Access forecasts and updates instantly with swipe shortcuts, ensuring weather information is always available.
Real-Time Weather Reporting
Stay updated with precise details on temperature, wind speed, humidity, and visibility for your current or saved locations.
Detailed 7-Day Forecasts
Plan your week confidently, knowing daily highs, lows, and precipitation percentages. Hourly forecasts keep you prepared throughout the day.
Interactive Radar Maps
Track storms and weather changes as they happen, enabling quick and informed decisions during any weather situation.
Location-Based Weather Updates
Add multiple locations to monitor weather in various areas, which is perfect for travel or keeping an eye on loved ones.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
Plan your day more effectively with accurate daylight timings, which is especially helpful in shorter winter days.
Download All Weather Mode: Weather Home Today
Winter weather doesn’t have to catch you off guard. With All Weather Mode: Weather Home, you’ll have the tools to stay ahead of the storm, plan your week, and keep your loved ones safe. Don’t wait for the next blizzard to hit—Download All Weather Mode today and experience the power of advanced weather forecasting at your fingertips.