Massive fire in Jerusalem suburb forces residents to flee

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JERUSALEM (JTA) — A fire that forced residents of the Jerusalem suburb of Mevasseret Zion to evacuate their homes reportedly is under control.

Some 21 firefighting teams and six firefighting aircraft had worked Sunday afternoon to get the blaze under control, Ynet reported. Several homes reportedly caught on fire. At least 10 people, including one firefighter, were injured in the fire, according to The Jerusalem Post.

A weeklong heat wave and winds blowing toward the neighborhood have contributed to the fire’s volatility. The fire reportedly started in three locations.

Two Palestinian teens were arrested last week for setting a fire near Jerusalem in June that destroyed 15 acres of forest.

The Jerusalem area reportedly has suffered hundreds of fires in recent weeks, and many are believed to be the result of arson.
 

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