The Jennings Creek wildfire has spread across 5,000 acres along the New Jersey-New York border, with containment efforts still facing major challenges. By Monday morning, the fire was just 10% contained, with approximately 2,500 acres burned on each side of the state line.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service and the New York Department of Environmental Conservation are working around the clock to prevent further spread, though the area’s dry conditions have complicated their efforts. Light rainfall overnight provided minimal relief, with just a quarter-inch falling in West Milford and other parts of Passaic County. According to officials, the limited rainfall allowed some firefighters to rest, but the flames continue to pose a threat to structures, including homes in West Milford and Greenwood Lake.

An 18-year-old New York State Parks employee, Dariel Vasquez, died over the weekend while working to contain the Jennings Creek blaze. Vasquez, a recent graduate of East Ramapo Central School District, was struck by a tree near Greenwood Lake, N.Y. His death has highlighted the dangers crews face as they work to contain the largest wildfire in the region since 2008.

In addition to physical and environmental challenges, local communities have been affected. West Milford postponed its Veterans Day ceremony due to the fire response, with many of the firefighters being veterans themselves. A burn ban remains in effect, with officials urging residents to avoid outdoor fires or grills.

The Jennings Creek fire has led to several road and trail closures, including sections of East Shore Road and Beech Road. Trails in Long Pond Ironworks State Park and Tranquility Ridge are also closed to the public for safety.

Despite minimal rain, drought conditions persist, and officials say flames have reached tree roots, spreading underground. Helicopters equipped to drop 350-gallon water loads have been deployed, but full containment remains uncertain. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Pompton Lakes Wildfire Contained

In nearby Pompton Lakes, the Cannonball 3 wildfire was fully contained by Sunday evening. The 181-acre fire threatened 55 structures initially, though none required evacuation. Fire crews will continue to monitor containment lines until significant rainfall occurs, as smoke lingers over the area.

The Jennings Creek and Cannonball fires are part of a series of wildfires that have burned over 4,500 acres across New Jersey since October 1.