Mines Spung Wildfire Grows, Triggers Evacuations

The Mines Spung Wildfire in Wharton State Forest, Shamong Township, Burlington County, New Jersey, has grown rapidly from 100 acres to over 2,500 acres as of Friday night, with containment at 25%. Evacuations have been ordered for the Phillip M. Costello Preparatory Academy and the Lower Forge Campground, and five structures are threatened. The wildfire has forced the closure of several roads and trails, while hazardous air quality from smoke and ash now affects regions across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Firefighting efforts involve helicopters, bulldozers, ground crews, and backfiring operations, but dry, sandy soil continues to challenge containment. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and officials warn residents to avoid flying drones in the area. Emergency management teams caution that smoke and poor air quality may persist for several days.