Central Israel is battling a series of fast-moving wildfires fueled by scorching heat and strong winds. Massive evacuations are underway near Route 6 as flames encroach on key infrastructure, forcing road closures, suspended train services, and vehicle abandonment. Authorities fear additional evacuations may follow as fires spread near populated areas, with firefighters stretched across multiple fronts.

A wildfire crisis is unfolding in central Israel as fierce brush fires, supercharged by extreme heat and powerful winds, forced the evacuation of residents near Route 6 and ground transportation to a halt. The fires, which ignited in dry brush near the Pedaya and Petahia area, have erupted into a full-blown emergency, prompting the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority to deploy a massive response effort.

According to officials, 21 firefighting teams and two aircraft were immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the flames that raced toward Route 6 — a critical north-south artery. The road has been completely shut down between the Nesharim and Sorek junctions, with traffic brought to a standstill and motorists instructed to abandon their vehicles and evacuate on foot. Videos posted to social media show crowds fleeing through smoke-choked highways near Rehovot, a disturbing reminder of the fire's speed and scope.

🔥MASSIVE FIRE near Route 6 in central Israel forces full highway closure in both directions.
21 crews & 2 aircraft battling the blaze.
Evacuations possible. Trains halted.
Fire threatening homes & infrastructure.#Israel #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/NYCEJRbe1A

— Jewish News Syndicate (@JNS_org) April 23, 2025

In tandem, train services in the region were suspended as flames crept dangerously close to the tracks, disrupting commutes and freight movement.

“This is an escalating situation,” police said in a statement. “We are preparing for the evacuation of additional communities should the fire spread further.”

Emergency response teams are also battling a separate blaze near Moshav Tarum, north of Beit Shemesh, where at least 21 firefighting crews and four aircraft are engaged in containing the flames. Route 44 has been closed off, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area altogether.

I think there is good news about wildfire in beit shemes israel pic.twitter.com/8X3OKz6cL7

— yuliatie (@yuliatie126894) April 23, 2025

The Israel Meteorological Service had warned in advance of “extreme weather conditions” expected to peak on Tuesday and Wednesday — a forecast that tragically materialized. Temperatures soared to near-record highs, creating a perfect storm for multiple fire outbreaks across the country.

On Tuesday, major fires near Yavne disrupted power lines and train operations, foreshadowing today’s escalating crisis.

Police and emergency services continue to monitor affected zones and have warned residents to remain alert, follow evacuation orders, and stay clear of danger zones.

2 aircraft helping with my fire in Central Israel Route 6 pic.twitter.com/wn5keft8qu

— The_Airplane_Master (@plane12429) April 23, 2025

Key Locations Affected:

• Route 6 (Nesharim–Sorek) – Full closure due to fire threat
• Pedaya & Petahia – Emergency evacuations ordered
• Rehovot area – Heavy smoke, vehicle abandonment
• Moshav Tarum – Ongoing firefighting operation
• Route 44 – Closed due to fire near Beit Shemesh
• Yavne – Power disruptions and train service halted Tuesday