Firefighters Gain Control Over Fire Near Afka in South Mount Hebron After Evacuation

Firefighters and emergency teams gained control on Wednesday evening over a fire that broke out near the settlement of Afka in South Mount Hebron. The fire, which spread rapidly due to winds toward residential areas, was contained without casualties or significant damage. The blaze began in the afternoon in nearby woodland, prompting authorities to evacuate Afka residents and close Route 60 between Adorayim and Atneil in both directions.

Upon receiving the report, numerous firefighting forces were dispatched, including volunteers, local farmers, and crews from neighboring districts. Four firefighting planes from the Elad Squadron were also deployed to combat the fire from the air. Ground and aerial teams worked simultaneously on multiple fronts to establish firebreaks and halt the flames.

Deputy Commander Tamir Erez of the Judea Regional Fire Station stated that rapid and forceful response prevented the fire from reaching homes. The operation was conducted in cooperation with the South Mount Hebron Regional Council emergency teams and the Judea police district under Deputy Commissioner Eliyahu Zaiton. Erez emphasized that the coordinated effort contained the incident without significant damage or injuries.

Although control has been achieved, firefighters will remain in the area for several hours to perform additional extinguishing actions to prevent flare-ups. No updates have yet been provided regarding the reopening of Route 60 or the return of residents to their homes.