22 May 2023 | 10:44 AM UTC
Israel: Emergency crews responding to wildfire in Petah Tikva as of May 22
Emergency crews responding to wildfire in Petah Tikva, Israel, as of May 22. Evacuations and road closures ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire in Petah Tikva in Israel's Central District as of May 22. The fire broke out on the morning of May 22 near the Segula intersection. The fire is burning out of control and is being fanned by strong winds and dry conditions in the region. The Israel Meteorological Service has issued yellow forest fire danger and strong wind warnings across the affected area May 22. Further fire growth is possible in the coming hours and days.
Authorities have evacuated an unconfirmed number of nearby residents in the Baptist Village area and around 200 students have been evacuated from a nearby park. Highway 40 has been closed between the Segula and Yarkoon intersections and train traffic has been suspended at local stations.
Business and transport disruptions may persist in the affected area over the coming hours. Anticipate the status of nearby roads to change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close routes within the fire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. Traffic flows could also be disrupted during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region, as well as possibly disrupting operations at nearby airfields.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.
