Post by : Badri Ariffin

Authorities have successfully contained a fire in central Israel's Ben Shemen Forest, which led to the temporary closure of Highways 1 and 6, according to the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority.

This wildfire, which started earlier on Tuesday, ignited a swift response from emergency services as flames spread across the forest. While the situation is now under control, firefighting activities are still taking place.

No Reports of Injuries

A spokesperson for Magen David Adom (MDA) confirmed later in the day that no injuries have occurred. MDA medical teams remain on-site, available for treatment if necessary.

Emergency crews are actively monitoring the area and aiding firefighting efforts.

Highways 1 and 6 Reopened

The Israel Police announced on Tuesday that both Highway 1 and Highway 6 had been reopened after their earlier closure due to the fire.

Officers continue to manage traffic in the area, advising drivers to avoid it where possible due to ongoing congestion.

Continued Firefighting Operations

The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority reports that 21 firefighting crews, along with four aircraft, remain engaged in extinguishing the lingering open-air fire.

The blaze, which began on Tuesday, still sees firefighters deployed to mitigate any risk of further spread.

Previous Highway Fire Incident

On Monday, an earlier incident briefly closed Highway 1 eastbound due to a vehicle fire near the Shoresh Interchange close to Jerusalem.

Authorities confirmed that this incident also resulted in no injuries.

Increasing Fire Risks from Rising Temperatures

Officials have highlighted that escalating global temperatures are a factor in the growing intensity and frequency of forest fires.

In light of the rising wildfire threat, a collaborative effort involving the National Security Ministry, the Israel Innovation Authority, IAI, Technion, and the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority is underway to enhance fire detection capabilities, aiming for real-time alerts from the moment of ignition.

#Global News #Global Updates #Israel news #World News