Crews Make Progress On Wildfire Spreading Smoky Smell In Camden Co.

WATERFORD, NJ — Crews have contained half of a 45-acre wildfire in Camden County, officials said late Monday afternoon.

The fire was detected Monday morning in Wharton State Forest — around Tremont Avenue and Burnt Mill Road in Waterford Township. The blaze is among several brush fires in Camden County that have sent a smoky odor to local communities.

On Monday morning, officials expected to contain the fire at 45 acres. It has reached that size, with 50 percent contained as of 5 p.m., according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

No homes or buildings are at risk of damage, officials said.

Local roads in the forest may be closed.

Another update will come at around 10 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Forest Fire Service.

Fire engines, bulldozers and ground crews have been deployed. In the morning, crews strategically burned fuel in the fire's path to slow its spread and help contain it.

Wildfires have been prevalent throughout the region in recent weeks, with dry conditions from the worsening drought quickening their spread. New Jersey had virtually no rain in October, making it the driest month in the state's recorded history, which goes back to 1895.

Stage 3 fire restrictions remained in place Monday for the entire state. All outdoor fires must be in elevated stoves that use only propane, gas, natural gas or electricity.