Greater Noida (World Desk): A severe sandstorm hit southern Israel on Wednesday, covering the entire region with thick clouds of dust. Thick clouds of dust covered the Negev desert and Beersheba, reducing visibility to almost zero. Videos that went viral on social media showed the sky turning amber and thick layers of dust making it difficult for people to breathe. According to local media reports, the sandstorm was so widespread that it also affected Israeli military bases. Soldiers at a base in the Negev region were seen struggling to close doors due to strong winds.
Meteorologists had already warned of strong winds and dust storms in southern Israel. “This afternoon will be the hottest. Temperatures in coastal areas could reach 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (about 37–38°C), strong winds and a sandstorm will affect the weather,” Israel National News quoted meteorologist Lior Sudri as saying. The severe weather warning forced the government to cancel the country’s 77th Independence Day celebrations. Instead, a pre-recorded dress rehearsal for the celebrations was aired on Israeli television on Wednesday evening.
Huge forest fire in Jerusalem
A sandstorm and hot weather caused a massive forest fire in the outskirts of Jerusalem. The fire was so intense that nearby communities were immediately evacuated and the main highway connecting Jerusalem to Tel Aviv – Route 1 – had to be closed.
TV footage showed people abandoning their cars on the road and fleeing the flames. Thick smoke has spread all around, due to which the situation in the surrounding area remains serious.
INSANE sandstorm sweeps southern Israel, West Bank amidst raging wildfire crisis pic.twitter.com/QPDIgw3hft
— RT (@RT_com) May 1, 2025
Appeal for international assistance
Given the seriousness of the situation, the Israeli government has appealed for international help. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed that three firefighting planes are expected to arrive soon from Italy and Croatia. Apart from this, assistance has also been sought from Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria. According to the Foreign Ministry, help from these countries is being confirmed and firefighting efforts are being intensified.
Fire brigade and army took charge
Teams of more than 120 fire and rescue personnel have been deployed to control the fire. The work of extinguishing the fire is going on with the help of helicopters and aircraft. Also, the Israeli army has also involved its search and rescue forces in the operation, which are helping to take people to safe places in case of emergency.
Police informed that three communities have been evacuated and at least 13 people have been injured so far. However, no casualties have been reported at the moment.
Crisis on the eve of Independence Day
This incident happened at a time when Israel was on the eve of its Independence Day after Martyr Soldiers’ Memorial Day. Usually there is a festive atmosphere across the country on this day, but bad weather and the havoc of fire have spoiled all the programs. The main state ceremony to be held in the capital Jerusalem was also canceled.
Sandstorms and forest fires have put Israel in deep crisis. The administration and security forces are engaged in emergency arrangements across the country. With the hope of international cooperation, Israel is trying to overcome this crisis. At present, the situation is being closely monitored and people have been appealed to remain alert.
