A wildfire in southern New Jersey, dubbed the Jones Road Wildfire, has burned over 20 square miles, prompting evacuations for about 5,000 people. The fire, which started Tuesday, is 50% contained as of Thursday morning and could become the largest in 20 years. While one commercial building and some outbuildings were destroyed, no homes were damaged. The Garden State Parkway was temporarily closed due to the fire but has since reopened. An investigation into the cause is underway, with drought conditions cited as a potential factor. Rain is forecast for Friday and Saturday.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.