Fires raged in the Jerusalem area on Wednesday, leaving three firefighters injured and 17 people in need of treatment for smoke inhalation. Multiple communities were evacuated, major highways were closed, and train service was disrupted as authorities worked to gain control of the blaze.
The Jerusalem Post writer and breaking news editor Shir Perets, who reported on the fires Wednesday, joined the Post in studio for an update on the conflagration, and its connection to the climate crisis.
She also provided an update on what Israelis can expect from the rest of the hot season and what other climate-related impacts could be felt this season.
Fire containment efforts
Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recommendation during his operational assessment, the IAF Shimson aircraft dropped fire retardant material to create a barrier line between the fire's focal point and nearby communities overnight.
“This is a challenging operation requiring high coordination and skill from both the air crews and the ground firefighting teams,” the statement read.
“All forces are operating with determination and professionalism to reduce the risk to residents and prevent the fire's spread. The aerial firefighting unit of Fire and Rescue Services Israel is coordinating all air operations for this event.”
All roads previously closed have been opened following the fires, and the blazes were controlled after nearly 24 hours of nonstop efforts from Israel's firefighters, soldiers, police, and more.
Shir Perets contributed to this report.
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