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The wildfire on Neversink Mountain in Lower Alsace Township is now 100% contained, according to state officials. The fire, which affected about 138 acres of both privately and publicly owned woodland, was brought under control after five days of firefighting efforts. The containment was achieved by a crew of 22 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) employees, who were assisted by volunteer personnel from the Lower Alsace Fire Company. Reading Eagle reports that the fire was discovered late Friday and was 85% contained by Tuesday. By Wednesday, the fire was fully contained, marking the end of active fire-suppression operations.
Despite the containment of the fire, officials warn that the area is still in severe danger due to dry conditions. Chris Mast with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resource's Bureau of Forestry told WFMZ that the area will likely continue to see smoky spots for a while and urged residents to use caution and avoid outdoor burning. The fire's cause is still under investigation.