Wildfires Outside Jerusalem Trigger Evacuations and Road Closures
Stockholm, May 1 (Hibya) – Wildfires near Jerusalem forced evacuations in multiple areas and led to the closure of several major roads on Wednesday, as firefighters battled the flames amid dry conditions and strong winds.
Israel is seeking international assistance to fight the fires, after the defense minister declared the country to be in a "national emergency period."
Shmulik Friedman, Commander of the Jerusalem District Fire Department, told reporters Wednesday afternoon, “This is perhaps the largest fire in the country.” He warned that winds over 60 miles per hour are expected “in the near future,” significantly increasing the fire risk.
The fire forced authorities to shut down Route 1, the main highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, on Wednesday — Israel’s Memorial Day.
Videos on social media show people walking along a highway filled with thick smoke.
According to a video from emergency response organization United Hatzalah, hours later emergency teams ran through long lines of abandoned vehicles searching for anyone who might still be inside.
Friedman said, “We don’t know what caused the fire. We have absolutely no idea. We’re still not managing. We’re far from having it under control.”
Usa News Agency
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