What Happened
A significant wildfire, known as the Mines Sprung Fire, erupted in Wharton State Forest, located in Shamong Township, New Jersey, on June 13, 2025. The fire quickly spread, consuming approximately 4,200 acres by June 14, and as of that morning, it was reported to be 40% contained. The wildfire has led to hazardous air quality conditions across the Philadelphia region, with smoke and ash affecting areas in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Local fire departments received numerous calls regarding the smoke, which was initially mistaken for local fires.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reported that the fire was first detected by a private aircraft. Although no injuries or structural damages have been reported, evacuations were ordered for the Lower Forge Campground and the Phillip M. Costello Preparatory Academy, which serves young men. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Key Details
- Fire Size: The Mines Sprung Fire has grown to 4,200 acres.
- Containment Status: As of June 14, the fire is 40% contained.
- Air Quality Impact: Smoke from the fire has led to “hazardous” air quality conditions in the Philadelphia area, with air quality readings indicating “very unhealthy” levels in Wilmington, Delaware, and “unhealthy for sensitive groups” in Harrisburg and Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
- Evacuations: Evacuations were ordered for the Lower Forge Campground and the Phillip M. Costello Preparatory Academy.
- Duration of Smoke Effects: Gloucester County’s emergency management team indicated that the smell of smoke could linger for up to three days.
- Previous Wildfires: This incident follows a series of wildfires in New Jersey, including the Jones Road Fire in April 2025, which burned over 13,000 acres.
Multiple Perspectives
Local authorities and emergency management teams have emphasized the importance of public safety, advising residents to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities due to the hazardous air quality. The Upper Darby Professional Firefighters noted that the smoke was likely being carried by winds from the New Jersey wildfire.
On the other hand, some residents expressed concern about the impact of the smoke on their health, particularly for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The Hockessin, Delaware Fire Company reported that heavy smoke and a strong burning odor were affecting New Castle County, leading to the cancellation of outdoor events by Special Olympics Delaware.
While officials are focused on containment efforts and public safety, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and there is no consensus on the factors contributing to the increased frequency of wildfires in the region.
Context & Background
Wildfires have become a recurring issue in New Jersey, particularly in areas like Wharton State Forest, which is characterized by dense vegetation and dry conditions. The state has experienced a series of droughts and high temperatures leading up to this incident, which may have contributed to the fire’s rapid spread.
The Mines Sprung Fire is part of a broader trend of increasing wildfire activity in the northeastern United States, which has been attributed to climate change and changing weather patterns. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has noted that the state has seen a rise in the number of wildfires in recent years, prompting discussions about forest management and fire prevention strategies.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the situation develops, several uncertainties remain. The exact cause of the Mines Sprung Fire is still under investigation, and further updates from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service are expected. Additionally, while air quality conditions have begun to improve, it is unclear how long the effects of the smoke will last and whether further evacuations may be necessary if the fire spreads.
Furthermore, the long-term implications of this wildfire on local ecosystems, air quality, and public health are still being assessed. As the fire service continues to work towards full containment, ongoing monitoring of air quality and public health advisories will be critical in the coming days.
