WHARTON STATE FOREST, NJ — The Tea Time Hill Wildfire, which ignited on July 5 near the Batona Campground and Apple Pie Hill in Wharton State Forest, continues to affect air quality in parts of Burlington and Ocean counties. Despite being 100% contained, the fire still smolders, particularly affecting the communities of Chatsworth, Washington Twp., Woodland Twp., and Barnegat Twp.
The ongoing smoke conditions are attributed to the fire consuming unburned pockets within the affected area and the burning of the duff layer—organic matter beneath the forest floor—which is a common occurrence in summer wildfires. Local residents can expect smoke to linger close to the ground, especially during the higher humidity of evening and overnight hours.
Health officials advise that the smoke will persist until significant rainfall helps extinguish the fire remnants completely. Meanwhile, New Jersey Forest Fire Service crews are actively working on scene to improve containment lines, mop up hotspots along the fire perimeter, and monitor the situation.
Residents with respiratory conditions are urged to keep windows closed and limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure to the smoke.
