April 22, 2025 – Ocean County, NJ
A rapidly spreading wildfire in Ocean County has forced mass evacuations and sparked concern over its proximity to the decommissioned Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station in Lacey Township.
The blaze—dubbed the Jones Road Fire—has scorched approximately 8,500 acres of forest within the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area. As of Tuesday evening, officials report the fire is only 10% contained.
At least 3,000 residents have been evacuated from Ocean Township, Lacey Township, and Barnegat Township. Over 1,300 structures are currently threatened. Multiple major highways, including stretches of the Garden State Parkway, Route 9, and Route 532, have been shut down. Emergency shelters have been set up at Southern Regional High School and Manchester Township High School to accommodate evacuees and their pets.
Power has been intentionally cut to more than 25,000 homes as a precaution, after Jersey Central Power & Light was asked to de-energize lines connected to the Oyster Creek substation.
Though the Oyster Creek plant was shut down in 2018, spent nuclear fuel remains stored on-site. Officials have not yet confirmed any immediate danger to the facility, but the fire’s proximity has heightened concerns. Earlier reports noted a small fire near the site, which was quickly extinguished.
Aerial water drops, bulldozers, and dozens of ground crews are battling the blaze in challenging dry and windy conditions.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to local news and emergency services for the latest updates and evacuation information.