Wild fire threatens Jerusalem

JERUSALEM (Press Release)–The Jewish National Fund issued the following news advisory on Thursday, May 26:

In what has been described as the biggest fire since the devastating 2010 Carmel fire, a huge blaze broke out and continues to rage in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. Fifty firefighting and rescue teams and eleven planes are attempting to control the blaze.

Due to high winds and temperatures, firefighters fear the fire could rapidly spread to residential areas and residents in the areas of Abu Gush, Cedar Valley, Gilo, Mevasseret Zion, Romema, and Ramot Forest have been asked to evacuate their homes.

The fire is thought to have been sparked by remnants of bonfires that were lit Wednesday night to mark the celebration of Lag B’Omer.

Because it sits immediately in the path of the worst of the fire, the beautiful JNF 9/11 Living Memorial Plaza in Arazim Valley is in danger of being destroyed.

As always, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services are on the ground doing everything they can to get control of the situation. Though always underfunded, Israel’s Fire & Rescue Services need us now more than ever to replenish supplies, firefighting and emergency equipment.

We pray for the lives of the brave men and women who put their lives in danger’s way to protect our homeland.

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Preceding provided by Jewish National Fund