Kfar Qara Landfill Fire Continues, Authorities Warn of 'Deadly Poison'

Fire and rescue teams are continuing efforts to control a large fire at a waste dump in Kfar Qara, which has been generating dense smoke that has spread to distant areas. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and only go out when necessary. Kaid Zahir, spokesperson for the Fire and Rescue Authority, stated in an interview that over 20 teams, more than 7 cranes, and other agencies have been involved in firefighting efforts since the blaze began, with 13 teams working through the night. Zahir confirmed that full control of the fire has not yet been achieved, although teams have managed to contain some flames. An investigation into the fire's causes is underway, with initial leads being pursued without disclosure of details. The fire approached buildings, homes, and a commercial area, but no evacuations were needed. The primary concern remains the thick smoke, exacerbated by weather conditions, which is expected to persist. Residents near the site have been instructed to remain indoors due to the dangers of the smoke from burning waste. Ministry of Environmental Protection teams are working alongside firefighters to mitigate smoke spread. The use of aircraft has been considered for areas distant from residential zones. Zahir highlighted that fires at informal landfills in Arab towns are a recurring problem, accounting for approximately 42% of the Fire and Rescue Authority's monthly operations, alongside issues related to car dismantling sites. He emphasized that random waste burning is illegal, with legal actions and fines, some reaching hundreds of thousands of shekels, imposed on individuals and contractors. Zahir urged citizens to recognize these fires as a direct health and environmental hazard.