The Jennings Creek Wildfire, burning since November 9, 2024, gained the attention of various media channels across the country. Soon after, wildfires began spreading at a record pace in New Jersey and beyond. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service and The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation have been fighting the Jennings Creek Wildfire since it began (Patch). New Jersey firefighters have also been helping areas in need and continue to help across state lines in New York.
AP News reports that a voluntary evacuation overnight helped the New Jersey firefighters protect more than 160 homes from a stubborn wildfire near the state border while responding to 271 brush fires. This marks the highest two-week period in New York’s History of wildfires.
These disasters have had an impact on firefighters, especially volunteers. Tragically, it was reported that an 18-year-old volunteer firefighter died in New York after being crushed by a falling tree. Another was injured while fighting a brush fire by downed powerlines. He was treated at the hospital and released (AP News).
As for the cause of these devastating events, it is believed that due to the lack of rain and unexpected warm temperatures in New Jersey from late summer into mid-autumn, the region is now officially under a drought warning. In fact, “Bergen County alone has had just 2.2 inches of rain in the past 90 days ― 83% below normal” (northjersey). As a result, Governor Phil Murphy and DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced that the State of New Jersey is declaring a Drought Warning. In order to combat this, Ramapo teacher Mrs. Iwaki recommends using “low-flow showerheads, faucets and toilets that reduce water usage.” She also suggests the use of “energy-efficient appliances.” In addition, Ramapo freshman Neva Gold expresses, “When you’re washing dishes, don’t let the water run when it’s not needed.”
Overall, these wildfires are wreaking havoc across New Jersey and New York, damaging homes, the environment, and the air quality. Due to the drought warning, measures should be taken to preserve water where it is not needed and save it to help our state. As a citizen of New Jersey, you can make a difference.
