A large brush fire broke out Friday near Avia Farm in northern Samaria, and Israeli fire and rescue officials said there is suspicion it was deliberately set. Fire crews were dispatched to the scene, where they reported a wide fire line and serious difficulty reaching the flames from the ground.
Because of the terrain and weather conditions, commanders decided to send four firefighting aircraft, which were operating under the direction of an aerial support officer. Fire investigators also arrived and, based on initial findings from the site, determined there is a substantive suspicion of arson.
At the same time, local farmers were working around the farm to create firebreaks in an effort to slow the blaze and keep it from reaching the residential buildings. The article did not report any injuries or damage so far, but it said the fire was still active and crews were continuing to battle it.
