A massive wildfire in Israel has scorched over 5,000 acres (20 square kilometers) and forced drivers to abandon their cars. The blaze, which started in the hills near Jerusalem on Wednesday, is the most severe the country has seen in the past decade. As emergency crews battle the flames, the situation remains tense, with several towns near Jerusalem evacuated and smoke drifting across the region.
Israel’s Deadly Wildfire: A Crisis Unfolding
The wildfire in Israel has become a major disaster, affecting both residents and visitors. As of Thursday, at least 12 people have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, though no homes have been damaged—a “miracle” according to the fire service. The flames have ravaged 5,000 acres of land and sent plumes of smoke over Jerusalem, causing widespread panic and disruption.
Emergency Response and International Support
In response to the fire, Israel has deployed 10 firefighting planes, with eight more arriving from international allies. Countries like Spain, Italy, France, Croatia, Ukraine, and Romania have sent aircraft to assist in tackling the blaze. Despite the severity of the fire, firefighting efforts have mostly contained the flames, with the fire service expressing optimism about controlling the situation in the coming days.
The Impact on Jerusalem and Surrounding Areas
On Wednesday, the fire’s rapid spread forced drivers on the highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to abandon their vehicles as the flames neared. While evacuations were initially ordered for 12 towns in the area, the evacuation orders have since been lifted, and the main highway has reopened. However, the blaze’s intensity continues to threaten nearby forests, with firefighting efforts ongoing.
Climate Change and Fire Risks in Israel
Anat Gold of the Jewish National Fund highlighted the critical role of climate change in exacerbating fire risks. Israel has faced several years of drought, creating conditions ideal for wildfires. With little rain during the winter months and high winds, fires have become a growing concern in the region. Gold emphasized that climate change is likely a contributing factor to the increased frequency and severity of wildfires in Israel.
Fire Safety During Israel’s Independence Day
With Israel’s Independence Day coinciding with the ongoing wildfire crisis, citizens have been urged to take extra precautions. Authorities advised against barbecuing in forests and parks, and public celebrations were limited due to the strain on security forces and emergency services.
A Country on Edge
Israel’s battle with this major wildfire is far from over, but the combined efforts of local and international teams are showing progress. With the flames now mostly contained, the focus shifts to preventing further spread and assisting affected communities. The fire has underscored the growing impact of climate change, which is making wildfires more common and devastating worldwide.
