Massive Fire Forces Evacuation in Shomron's Havat Gilad, Dozens of Homes Damaged

A large fire erupted near Kadumim in the Shomron region on Saturday and rapidly spread towards the settlement of Havat Gilad, prompting a full evacuation of its residents. The fire advanced quickly due to strong winds, reaching the residential area and causing significant damage. At least 13 homes, a garage, and a wood storage facility were destroyed, along with damage to vehicles including an armored firefighting vehicle.

Over 40 firefighting and rescue teams, supported by firefighting aircraft, helicopters, and reinforcements from other districts, are actively combating the blaze to prevent further spread and regain control. Police forces, including aerial units and drone teams, are managing evacuations, road closures, and emergency routes. Key junctions such as Jit, Kadumim, and Yitzhar remain closed, and part of Highway 55 is blocked for rescue operations.

Several people sustained injuries, mostly minor, with one person moderately injured and hospitalized. Two firefighters were also hurt during the efforts. Due to the severity of the incident, a joint investigation team comprising fire department investigators, the Shomron police district, and the IDF has been established to determine the fire's cause. An interagency situation assessment was held to coordinate ongoing firefighting, investigation, and public safety measures.

Simultaneously, other fires broke out across Israel, including in Shamsheet in the Jezreel Valley, where residents were evacuated but the fire was contained, and in Kfar Vradim and the Shivli area, where firefighting teams successfully halted the flames after hours of effort.