Jimmy’s Waterhole: the overnight evacuation and the crews behind it (2023)

A fire beside two communities

The Jimmy’s Waterhole wildfire began April 11, 2023 near Route 539 and Horicon Avenue. Contemporary reporting described rapidly expanding fire and overnight evacuation in Manchester and Lakehurst. DEP’s later seasonal review records 170 homes evacuated and 3,450 acres burned, lower than the roughly 3,859-acre emergency estimate.

Supporting the responders

The New Jersey EMS Task Force’s annual report identifies Jimmy’s Waterhole among its major wildfire responses. Its crews provided medical support, rehabilitation, logistics and communications during extended operations. Keeping responders able to continue working was part of the emergency response, alongside direct suppression.

Manchester formally recognized its emergency responders at the May 8 council meeting. The township’s account records participation by career personnel and volunteers.

The available documents explain evacuation and support work. They do not establish an ignition culprit. The EMS report also appears to transpose the acreage figures for two fires, so its numbers are not used here.