What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of April 30, 2025, the Jerusalem Hills wildfire is burning west of Jerusalem, with flames spreading across multiple fronts near key landmarks such as Highway 1, Canada Park, and Neve Shalom (1). Drivers were forced to leave their vehicles on Highway 1, and nine people were rescued from areas affected by smoke.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The wildfire is impacting air quality in several areas including:

• Beko’a
• Haifa
• Latrun
• Mesilat Zion
• Mitzpe Harel
• Naharshon
• Neve Shalom
• Rehovot
• Ramat Beit Shemesh
• Tarum
• Tel Aviv
• Taoz

Additionally, fires are active in northern Israel near Afula, Ramat Zvi, and Rumat al-Heib, and have caused closures around the city of Elad.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of April 30, 2025, the wildfire remains uncontained, with active fires burning in at least six major locations. Over 120 firefighting teams, 12 aircraft, and multiple military units are engaged in efforts to control the blaze.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Immediate evacuations have been ordered in Neve Shalom, Latrun, and at least six other communities (2). Additional areas are on standby for potential evacuation.

Authorities have closed major roads, including Highway 1 and Route 3, and are urging the public to follow emergency instructions. Tel Aviv has also canceled Independence Day events due to the ongoing emergency (3).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.