New Jersey Wildfire Grows To 8,500 Acres; Thousands Evacuated, 'Forced' Power Outage Implemented

Scientists say global warming is making extreme weather events like droughts, wildfires and floods more frequent and intense. (Credit: AFP)

KEY POINTS

• The state fire service said some 3,000 residents have been evacuated so far
• Over 1,300 structures are threatened by the fast-spreading wildfire
• The local power provider has had to implement a 'forced' outage for around 25,000 customers

A wildfire in New Jersey expanded significantly from 3,000 acres to 8,500 acres within hours late Tuesday as firefighters worked to contain the fast-spreading blaze.