A wildfire in New Jersey's Pine Barrens grew to more than 20 square miles Wednesday, with officials saying it could grow further before firefighters could contain it.
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency on Wednesday due to the wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, nearly 1,320 structures were threatened by the wildfire, which led to 5,000 residents being placed under evacuation orders. These orders were issued for parts of Ocean and Lacey Townships. By early Wednesday afternoon, nearly all of those residents were allowed to return home.
Power was briefly cut to about 25,000 customers as a safety measure. It was restored later on Wednesday.
There have been no injuries or fatalities as a result of the fire, officials said.
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One commercial building was destroyed, along with several vehicles and outbuildings, officials said.
Forecasters expect dry conditions in the region on Wednesday, but winds are anticipated to remain relatively calm. Firefighters expected to contain the fire in a 15,410-acre area fully.
Officials have not yet determined the cause of the fire as of Wednesday evening.
