KKL Chief Warns of Human-Caused Wildfires Amid Extreme Heat in Israel

As Israel faces severe heatwaves with temperatures reaching up to 41 degrees Celsius in Eilat and 37 in Safed, the Jewish National Fund (KKL) issues a serious warning to hikers and the public. Gilad Ostrovsky, KKL's Chief Forester, told Kikar HaShabbat that the combination of prolonged drought, extreme heat, and careless human behavior poses a deadly risk of wildfires. He emphasized that in Israel, wildfires are almost always caused by humans, either accidentally or intentionally, and can spread rapidly.

Ostrovsky highlighted the impact of climate change, noting that summers are becoming longer and hotter with extended periods of extreme temperatures and severe fires. Despite improvements in firefighting capabilities, the threat remains significant. In response to the extreme weather, the Fire and Rescue Commissioner has issued a ban on lighting fires in forested areas.

Reflecting on lessons from the 2010 Carmel fire disaster, which caused many casualties, KKL has implemented protective measures including creating 76-meter-wide buffer zones around communities where pine trees are thinned or removed to reduce fire risk. The organization is also transitioning from monoculture pine forests to more diverse plantings of native Israeli species like carob, oak, and Judas tree to increase forest resilience in a warming climate.

Ostrovsky stressed that the key to forest preservation lies with visitors themselves, urging hikers not to litter, to take responsibility for their waste, avoid noise pollution, and stay on marked trails. Despite the dangers, he encouraged people to continue enjoying nature, citing the health and mental benefits of spending time in the forest, which offers cooler temperatures and a calming environment. KKL is conducting research to make forests accessible and beneficial for all population sectors, including the ultra-Orthodox community and large families.