A brush fire that broke out on Neversink Mountain late Friday night has now spread across more than 170 acres, prompting evacuations and mobilizing extensive firefighting resources as crews work to contain the blaze. The fire, which began around 11:30 p.m. on the city side of Neversink Mountain, quickly escalated due to strong winds, low humidity, and dry conditions following weeks of drought.
Mayor Eddie Morán released a statement Saturday highlighting the coordinated emergency response. “The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Forestry division will lead the firefighting and mop-up operation, expected to continue for several days,” Mayor Morán stated. He added that residents should avoid accessing Neversink Mountain and continue following city updates as the situation develops. Evacuations were initially reported along the fire line in East Reading, with Amanda E. Stout Elementary School set up as a shelter for affected residents. Evacuations have since been lifted.
State Fire Warden Tom Kemery provided further insights on the firefighting efforts and challenges. “We’re preparing plans for overnight,” Kemery said. “We were very successful today, but we’re just not quite where we want to be. We’re going to keep a skeleton crew here overnight for safety, then resume full efforts tomorrow at daylight.”
The timeline of events highlights the fire’s rapid progression. The fire began on the west side of Neversink Mountain and spread quickly southward, nearly reaching Neversink Mountain Road before firefighters contained it. By Saturday afternoon, firefighters had mobilized extensive resources, equivalent to a multi-alarm structure fire response. According to Kemery, about 100-150 personnel responded overall. A helicopter was deployed to assist with mapping, observation, and water drops on the east side of the mountain.
The impact of the fire has been severe, including the loss of several vehicles and trailers on the mountain. Homes near South 9th Street and Fairview Street in Reading, as well as properties along Neversink Mountain Road, Gannert Lane, and Centennial Street, were evacuated as the fire approached within 50 yards of some residences. Two local jurisdictions and the city of Reading activated emergency management services, coordinating evacuation protocols and establishing shelters.
Looking ahead, Kemery warned that challenging conditions persist, with only minimal rain expected in the coming days. “We’re going to be here for four to seven days or more to get this all under control,” he noted. The fire is likely to remain an ongoing operation as crews work to achieve containment and prevent further spread. As of Saturday afternoon, crews were assessing containment progress, though specific percentages were not yet available.
Kemery urged residents to heed the existing burn ban, cautioning against any outdoor burning, even for agricultural purposes or in approved burn pits. “My vote, however little it means, is don’t burn at all,” he said, noting that conditions are too dry and volatile for safe burning practices.
The community response has been overwhelmingly supportive, with numerous donations of food and supplies arriving at fire stations. Kemery expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of assistance but encouraged residents to hold off on further donations of ready-to-eat foods to avoid waste. “We’ve been overwhelmed with support. We appreciate it, but we don’t want to see anything go to waste,” he said.
As firefighting efforts continue, city officials and emergency management personnel are closely monitoring conditions and will provide further updates through official channels. The community’s cooperation and caution are essential in ensuring the safety of residents and responders alike during this challenging time.
Anyone in need of Red Cross assistance should call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All Red Cross disaster assistance is free.