Large numbers of firefighters are working to put out blazes which broke out near Ramot and another near Mevaseret Zion; KKL-JNF says Lag BaOmer bonfire caused conflagration.
Firefighters were battling massive blazes on Thursday afternoon near the Ramot neighborhood in Jerusalem and near Mevaseret Zion, a suburb of the capital, with KKL-JNF saying the fires have been caused by Lag BaOmer bonfires.
Large numbers of firefighters are working to gain control of the blaze, which broke out in a big forest near Ramot. The fire is spreading because of strong winds and is nearing an inhabited area, leading to the evacuation of houses on Derech Hahoresh Street and other nearby streets in Ramot, while residents in Mevaseret Zion were called to stay indoors with doors and windows closed. The nearby Arazim Tunnel has been closed for traffic. So far, there have been no reports of injuries.
Eighteen firefighting teams were deployed, as well as a water tank and eight firefighting planes. Jerusalem\’s Fire Department has put out a cross-district general call for assistance.
An announcement was made to inhabitants of Ramot: "Those living in the Masholim area are asked to evacuate their homes due to a nearby fire getting closer. Please evacuate in a cautious manner and close all doors and windows. Please ensure that no neighbors, old people or children are left behind."
The KKL-JNF said the fire was a result of Wednesday\’s Lag BaOmer fires, but this has not been confirmed by the Fire Department. According to the KKL-JNF, the 9/11 Living Memorial Plaza in Arazim Valley is in danger of being destoyed.
A brush fire broke out near Kiryat Gat in southern Israel, while firefighters from Ashkelon and Kiryat Gat were also combating a large barn fire at moshav Shalva. Ashdod firefighters are working to put out a big brush fire in moshav Azrikam.