A fire broke out this morning (Wednesday) near Highway 6, between the moshavim (rural villages) of Petahya, Pedaya, and Givaton. Another blaze erupted in the Eshtaol Forest near the community of Tarum in the Beit Shemesh area.
Police forces have begun evacuating residents of Pedaya, near Ramla, while continuing to manage the situation in coordination with fire and rescue services, the aerial unit, the Nature and Parks Authority, local security personnel, and other emergency services.
Highway 6 Closed Between Nesherim and Sorek Interchanges
Due to the spread of flames, Highway 6 has been closed in both directions between the Nesherim and Sorek interchanges. Drivers caught in the traffic jam were instructed to abandon their vehicles and escorted to safety. Train traffic in the area has been suspended due to the proximity of the fire to the tracks.
16 Fire Crews, Two Planes, and a Helicopter Battling the Blaze
The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority report that strong winds are rapidly spreading the flames, prompting a joint ground and aerial effort to contain the fire.
A situation assessment was held at the unified command post established in Mazkeret Batya under the command of Central District Police Commander Kobi Mor. Emergency teams are currently removing vehicles from the danger zone.
Additionally, based on the fire’s projected spread, the district commander has ordered preparations for potential evacuations of additional communities, including the deployment of buses if necessary.
Another Fire – Eshtaol Forest
Simultaneously, another fire is developing in the Eshtaol Forest near the entrance to Moshav Tarum. Around 20 firefighting teams are operating at the scene, supported by aerial firefighting planes and KKL-JNF crews. Reinforcements from the Jerusalem district and nearby regions are en route.
Hundreds of Acres Burned in Tzora and Eshtaol Forest Fires | Photo Credit: KKL-JNF Rangers and Staff
Israel Police have closed Highway 44 in both directions and are urging the public to stay away from the fire zones to ensure both their safety and that of the emergency responders.
The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority warns that the fire in Eshtaol Forest is spreading quickly and has issued a “Firestorm” alert. Security officials stress the importance of following instructions and keeping clear of danger zones. United Hatzalah provided initial treatment to a person suffering from smoke inhalation, who was evacuated in light condition for further care at a hospital.
