Israel Electric Company has joined other agencies in declaring a state of emergency in the northern area. The utility company has been forced to cut power to areas, high tension lines, due to the dangers posed by spreading fires.

MDA reports treating 56 people for smoke inhalation in the Haifa district, of which one is listed in moderate condition and the remainder light. Eight victims were transported to Bnei Tzion Hospital, 35 to Rambam, and 13 to Carmel.

Greece and Turkey are sending additional firefighting planes. The Greek planes are capable of dumping 18 tons of water every five minutes and these advanced planes appear to have taken the lead in the fight to stop Haifa from burning. The water for the planes is coming from the Mediterranean of the Haifa Bay.

In a short time there will be additional challenges as shekiya in Haifa is 4:35PM today. It will be especially difficult in areas where power has been cut.

Police are reporting traffic is at a standstill on many roads including Rt. 752 from Nesher to Ligur, Route 721 from Damon Junction to Beit Oren Junction and Route 70 towards Ein Tut.

Route 4 from Beit Oren to Haifa is also backed up a is Route 22 at the Bialik Interchange and Route 75 from Lev HaMifratz Junction to Emakim Junction.

Police advise motorists to use Route 6 to Route 70 to Route 22 as an alternative.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)