On Tuesday, both the US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly and the US National Weather Service New York NY announced a Special Weather Statement concerning the heightened potential for wildfires throughout New Jersey. The blend of low relative humidity ranging between 25 and 30 percent, southern winds at speeds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts exceeding 20 mph, and desiccated fuels, will escalate the danger of fire expansion from approximately midday until sunset.
The risk of fire growth and dissemination is anticipated to be more pronounced on Wednesday afternoon and early evening after the passage of a cold front. During this time, relative humidity is expected to drop to 25 to 30 percent, with western winds reaching up to 30 mph.
The intensity of this risk will hinge on the occurrence of wetting rain accompanying the frontal progress. Citizens are advised to be cautious when handling potential fire-starting equipment like machinery, cigarettes, and matches, as any fires that ignite in parched grassy areas and tree debris have the potential to rapidly extend.