Large wildfire spreading rapidly in Ben Shemen Forest area near Highway 6; 14 firefighting teams and four firefighting aircraft engaged; Highway 6 closed in both directions at Daniel interchange; strong winds complicating containment efforts.
A major wildfire broke out Tuesday in an open area near Ben Shemen Forest adjacent to Highway 6, with strong winds driving rapid spread of flames across the terrain.
The fire prompted authorities to close Highway 6 in both directions at the Daniel interchange to allow emergency personnel to operate safely and prevent civilian vehicles from entering the affected area. Heavy smoke and raging flames are still visible from a considerable distance.
Israel Fire and Rescue Service mobilized 14 firefighting teams from the Ayalon station to contain the blaze. Four firefighting aircraft have joined ground crews in aerial suppression efforts. Firefighting teams are working at multiple points within the affected area, while aircraft conduct aerial operations to prevent further expansion.
Strong winds are complicating containment efforts and accelerating flame spread, according to fire service reports. Emergency personnel continue active operations at the scene.
Fire and Rescue Service officials called on the public to avoid the Ben Shemen Forest and Daniel interchange areas and to comply with instructions from security and rescue personnel operating at the scene. The service did not specify when Highway 6 would reopen.
Police Traffic Alert:
Following a nearby fire, Highway 6 south and north near Ben Shemen has been completely closed to vehicle traffic. Traffic is being diverted to Highway 444.
Highway 1 east in the Ben Shemen area is also closed to vehicle traffic. Traffic is being diverted to Highway 443.
Drivers are requested to avoid the area.
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