Summary:

Over 160 homes evacuated due to a wildfire near the NY/NJ border.
The Jennings Creek Wildfire, burning over 5,000 acres, briefly broke containment lines.
Unfavorable weather conditions and ongoing drought are exacerbating the situation.
New York City is experiencing a significant increase in brush fires, prompting the creation of a new task force by the FDNY.
Recent brush fires near Amtrak tracks in the Bronx caused train service disruptions.

NYC Wildfire Emergency: 160 Homes Evacuated

Over 160 homes were evacuated near the New York/New Jersey border due to a wildfire that broke through containment lines on November 16th, 2024. The Jennings Creek Wildfire, which has burned over 5,000 acres, is approximately 90% contained, but the unexpected spread necessitated the emergency evacuations.

Authorities reported that overnight efforts successfully protected structures, and none are currently in danger. Evacuees were offered shelter at a local middle school. Firefighting efforts involve water drops from New York Air National Guard helicopters, and the fire is described as "boxed in by fire lines."

Unfavorable Weather Conditions

The ongoing drought across the Northeast is exacerbating the situation. No significant rainfall is expected until possibly Thursday. The National Weather Service issued a special statement warning of an elevated wildfire risk in several New Jersey counties.

NYC Brush Fire Increase

New York City is also experiencing a surge in brush fires. The FDNY responded to 229 brush fires in a two-week period (Oct 29 - Nov 11), prompting the creation of a new brush fire task force. Recent incidents near Amtrak tracks in the Bronx even caused service disruptions.

The FDNY is also conducting safety outreach to reduce the number of brush fires in the city.

Source: Yahoo! Voices