Fire breaks out near Jerusalem as extreme heat could reach 25-year high
Public urged to stay away from Haruvit Forest as firefighters battle flames; heat wave expected to subside Sunday
A fire broke out near Jerusalem on Saturday, as Israelis flocked to beaches amid “extreme” temperatures estimated at roughly 15°C (27°F) above seasonal averages, according to the Israel Meteorological Service.
The service had warned of the potential for blazes due to the high heat and relatively low humidity.
The Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters were working to put out flames at Haruvit Forest and asked the public to stay away from the area, adding that the heat and strong wind meant “there is a danger that the fire will quickly spread.” No injuries were reported.
The IMS forecast a high of 37°C (99°F) in Tel Aviv, 38°C (101°F) in Jerusalem, 42°C (107°F) in Beersheba, and 33°C (92°F) in Haifa.
The northern city of Beit She’an and the southern city of Eilat were forecast to reach temperatures as high as 45°C (113°F) and 46.5°C (115°F), respectively.
Some of the temperatures, especially in the Jordan Valley, Negev and Arava desert regions were expected to break 25-year heat records for the month of May.
Heat levels were expected to decrease on Sunday, though they would likely remain above the seasonal average, the IMS said.
The Health Ministry has warned of the heat waves, calling on the public, particularly the elderly and those suffering from chronic conditions, to avoid exposure to heat and the sun as much as possible.
People should drink water frequently and remain in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, the ministry said, urging the public to avoid nonessential physical exertion, both indoors and outdoors.
The scorching weather on Saturday came some two weeks after a previous heat wave that sparked Jerusalem-area fires thought to be some of the largest in Israel’s history. The fires, which took 30 hours to get under control, burned through about 20,000 acres.
Those blazes led to the evacuation of several communities as well as the cancellation of most Independence Day celebrations. There were no major injuries, though some people had to be treated for inhaling smoke.
The Times of Israel Community.