The New Jersey Forest Fire Service announced full containment of a wildfire that burned approximately 100 acres in Hackettstown, Warren County. The fire, which began near Route 46, was contained by 8 a.m. on Saturday after several days of response and suppression efforts.
The blaze was one of several spring wildfires in the state, which have been fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and remains under investigation by fire authorities.
No injuries or structural damage were reported, though nearby communities were placed on alert during the height of the fire. Firefighters worked through fluctuating weather conditions to contain the perimeter and prevent the spread of flames into more densely populated areas.
“At 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service achieved 100% containment of an approximately 100-acre wildfire,” the department said in a statement shared on social media. Officials credited a coordinated response involving ground crews and aerial suppression.
The fire was located near residential and commercial zones, prompting temporary road closures and increased monitoring by emergency personnel throughout Warren County.
Efforts continue to monitor area for flare-ups
Containment means the fire’s spread has been halted, though crews remain on site to monitor for any flare-ups or rekindling. Mop-up operations are expected to continue through the weekend, with crews checking smoldering debris and reinforcing containment lines.
Local authorities advised residents to remain cautious and report any signs of smoke or new ignitions. The Forest Fire Service has not released a timeline for the full demobilization of resources from the scene.
Hackettstown’s proximity to wooded areas and open fields has made it susceptible to seasonal wildfires in past years. Saturday’s containment marks a rapid response relative to similar incidents in the region.
The Route 46 wildfire adds to a growing number of early-season fires across New Jersey, as state officials continue to emphasize wildfire preparedness.