Wildfire spreads in Sayreville with NJ under ‘very high’ fire danger

SAYREVILLE — Firefighters are battling a wildfire in this Middlesex County borough as the rest of the state remains under a red-flag warning for such blazes.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reports that the fire along Bordentown Avenue near Sophie Street burned several acres. Aircraft had been dropping water on the flames. Sayreville police reported that the siding on two homes melted on Deborah Street. School buses also were running a bit late in Laurel Park, according to police.

The National Weather Service issued the warning until 5 p.m. today for inland areas of the state where the humidity remains low and winds are expected to gust to 20 mph.

"New Jersey has been rain-free bone-dry for nine days and counting. While that's led to some incredibly pleasant weather days, it has also led to the elevated wildfire danger. The ground and underbrush is so dry, as is the atmosphere, that even one little spark could quickly grow into a large blaze," said meteorologist Dan Zarrow.

The Forest Fire Service said that everyone needs to be careful with materials like cigarettes with the dry conditions and to use an ashtray. Throwing them on the ground is illegal. On the cold nights, be careful when using wood stoves and fireplaces, both of which can emit embers that can spark fires. It's also suggested to fully douse ashes with water before disposal.