(Source: CBS) Over 100 families in New York were asked to evacuate their homes this weekend as the Jennings Creek wildfire continued to rage across Orange County and into West Milford, New Jersey, burning for more than a week. The fire, which started on November 8, has scorched over 5,000 acres and remains a significant threat despite progress by firefighting crews.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), strong winds caused the fire to breach a containment line on Saturday evening, prompting officials to issue voluntary evacuation orders for residents in affected areas. Families living in over 160 homes near Edgemere Avenue and Wah Ta Wah Park in Warwick were urged to evacuate to a nearby shelter at Greenwood Lake Middle School.
Viktoria Kall, a local resident, described the quick response as she and her family evacuated. “We packed up just the essentials, everything in the safe, and then came here. We parked our cars and got here a little after midnight. They had cots set up and everyone was super helpful,” Kall said.
Evacuations and Shelter Operations
First responders began evacuating residents using buses, as firefighting crews worked tirelessly to contain the blaze. Over the course of Saturday, firefighters expanded the burn line and dropped 900 gallons of water from helicopters to keep the fire in check. While some residents began returning to their homes on Sunday morning, officials advised that voluntary evacuations would remain in effect until at least Monday.
The DEC emphasized that the evacuations were a precautionary measure to allow emergency crews to work unhindered. “The fire is primarily within the boundaries of Sterling Forest State Park, but we want to ensure public safety while we continue to battle the flames,” a DEC official said.
Firefighters Make Progress Despite Red Flag Conditions
A Red Flag Warning was issued across the Tri-State Area on Saturday due to strong winds and ongoing dry conditions, making firefighting efforts challenging. However, officials reported that the fire had grown by just 4 to 5 acres since the previous day and that no structures were in immediate danger.
The DEC stated that the fire was 88% contained as of Friday night, though fire crews remained on high alert. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Tragic Loss and Community Support
Tragically, the fire has already claimed one life. On November 9, an 18-year-old New York State Parks aide was killed after being struck by a falling tree while assisting with firefighting efforts. His death has cast a somber shadow over the firefighting community, though residents of Greenwood Lake showed their appreciation for first responders with cheers and signs of support on Saturday.
As the fire continues to burn, the DEC is urging local residents to stay informed about evacuation orders and fire updates. Residents can follow the New York State Park Police Facebook page for the latest developments.
While the immediate danger appears to have subsided for now, officials warn that the situation remains volatile due to dry conditions and high winds. Firefighters will continue to work around the clock to fully contain the wildfire and ensure the safety of the affected communities.
