Firefighters are battling a blaze in Wharton State Forest in four towns – Washington, Shamong, Hamton and Mulica – “fueled by dry and ventilated conditions,” the social media service said. The size of the fire represents a significant increase of 2,100 acres on Sunday night, the fire department said.
No injuries were reported, but 18 structures are at risk, according to the tweet.
“Protection of the structure is available and provided by local volunteer fire departments from Atlantic, Burlington and Ocean counties,” said fire officials. “Thank you for their help.”
Two roads and a number of hiking trails in the forest have been closed due to the forest fire, the fire department said.
Weather forecast for Monday, with a maximum temperature of 80 and wind between 5-10 mph. The winds are expected to subside by evening, and there is little chance of precipitation on Tuesday.
Wharton State Forest, about 20 miles northwest of Atlantic City, is the largest single piece of land in the New Jersey State Park system, according to the state’s Parks Service.
CNN’s Robert Shackleford contributed to this report.
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