On Wednesday, massive brushfires erupted west of Jerusalem, prompting Israeli police to close the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway and evacuate nearby communities, just a week after the same region was engulfed in relentless flames.
The renewed fire rapidly engulfed dry hillsides approximately 30 kilometers west of Jerusalem, prompting immediate evacuations as firefighters scrambled to control the rapidly spreading flames. Israeli news outlets showed footage of emergency responders working tirelessly to control massive fires and dense smoke that were engulfing sections of the highway and nearby communities.
🚨 residents were evacuated as a precaution, with fears that shifting winds and arid conditions could escalate the fire’s reach
This is the second significant wildfire to occur in the region within the past few days, sparking worries about the growing occurrence of severe fire incidents during Israel’s dry season. Officials have advised the public to avoid the impacted regions and adhere to emergency guidelines.
Despite the ongoing efforts of fire crews, the scorching temperatures and persistent dry winds continue to pose a significant threat.