Massive Fire Erupts in Ben Shemen Forest, Disrupting Major Highways
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
A large fire erupted in Israel's Ben Shemen Forest on Wednesday, spreading rapidly and forcing the closure of Highways 6 and 444. Over 60 firefighting teams, supported by aerial water drops, are battling the blaze. The fire is causing significant traffic disruptions, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A large fire broke out in Israel's Ben Shemen Forest on Wednesday.
- Highways 6 and 444 were closed due to the rapidly spreading flames.
- Over 60 firefighting teams are working to contain the blaze.
- Four firefighting aircraft are conducting aerial water drops.
- Significant traffic disruptions are occurring near the Ben Shemen interchange.
A large brush and treetop fire broke out on Wednesday in the Ben Shemen Forest area, rapidly spreading towards Highways 1, 6, and 444. In response to the fire's progression, police closed Highway 444 in both directions near the Ben Shemen interchange. Subsequently, Highway 6 was also closed to northbound traffic in the same vicinity.
The fire began in an open area and quickly escalated, with flames jumping between points near the main roads, according to the Fire and Rescue Services. Initially, 12 firefighting teams were engaged in efforts to contain the fire's front and prevent its westward spread. Due to the scale of the blaze and the conditions, the Fire and Rescue Commissioner, Rabbi Major General Eyal Caspi, ordered a nationwide assistance deployment.
Approximately 50 additional firefighting teams from all districts are en route to reinforce the forces on the ground. Concurrently, four firefighting aircraft were deployed, conducting targeted aerial drops to help suppress the flames. The fire is causing significant traffic disruptions around the Ben Shemen interchange. Authorities are urging drivers to avoid the area, use alternative routes, and stay updated on traffic arrangements. Police indicated that further closures and traffic pattern changes may occur based on the evolving situation and on-site assessments, and the public is advised to follow instructions from police and emergency personnel.
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