Wildfire That Threatened 15 Homes In Burlington Co. Gets Contained

EVESHAM, NJ — Crews have largely staved off an Evesham wildfire that put 15 homes at risk, officials said Thursday morning. But the smell of smoke could linger for nearby residents.

The Red Bone Hill wildfire was detected Wednesday afternoon off of Sycamore Avenue, which is surrounded by woodlands and near denser neighborhoods.

Ninety percent of the 40-acre fire is contained, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said in a briefing at 10 a.m. Thursday. There are no longer any homes or buildings under threat.

All roadways in the area remain open.

This will likely be the Forest Fire Service's last update on the incident unless significant developments happen.

Smoke is expected to linger until significant rain falls over the fire, officials said. Forest Fire Service personnel will continue monitoring the area until significant precipitation takes out the last of the blaze.

Residents in southern Evesham will smell smoke until there's soaking rain, according to township officials. It's unclear when that will happen. The region is in a worsening drought, and next-to-no rain has fallen in October.

Smoke from the wildfire has been visible in surrounding towns.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service and Evesham Fire Department reported to the scene Wednesday. Fire engines, bulldozers and ground crews have been deployed.

Berlin Fire Company No. 1 helped protect nearby homes.

The cause of the wildfire is under investigation.

Dry conditions and occasional wind have made fires spread quickly in recent weeks. The state's Stage 3 fire restrictions continued Thursday, prohibiting charcoal fires and only allowing fires in elevated stoves that use only propane, gas, natural gas or electricity.

A few sprinkles are possible Thursday night with a slight chance of showers next week, but it's unlikely to bring any beneficial rain, says the National Weather Service's Mount Holly office.

The state issued a drought watch Oct. 17, encouraging residents and businesses to conserve water.