A raging wildfire has engulfed the mountaintop near Cannonball Road in Pompton Lakes, Passaic County, casting an eerie, apocalyptic glow over North Jersey. Named the Cannonball 3 Wildfire, this blaze has already scorched 100 acres, with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service working around the clock to contain it. So far, containment stands at 0%, and the fire continues to pose a serious threat.
To slow the fire’s relentless advance, the Forest Fire Service has been using a backfiring strategy, igniting controlled burns to clear the fuel in the fire’s path. This tactical burning aims to prevent the fire from expanding toward residential areas, where 55 structures currently face potential risk. While no evacuations have been issued, residents are on high alert as firefighters work to keep the flames at bay.
The wildfire has also disrupted local travel, with Cannonball Road closed at DuPont Place and the right lane of Interstate 287’s northbound side shut down to allow for firefighting operations. The Forest Fire Service has deployed fire engines, ground crews, and even a helicopter that can drop up to 350 gallons of water to battle the flames from above. Local fire companies are on-site, providing structure protection to ensure homes and buildings in the area remain secure.
As the fire continues, the scene is described as surreal and haunting, with the glow of flames visible for miles around. For now, the firefighters’ mission remains focused on containment and preventing the spread to populated areas as residents anxiously await updates, hoping for the winds to turn in their favor and bring some relief.