Israel Fire and Rescue Services reported that a vehicle caught fire on Highway 44, near the Shimshon Interchange by Beit Shemesh. Firefighting teams were dispatched to the scene, as the fire spread to a nearby forest. Additionally, firefighting aircraft from the "Elad" squadron were scrambled, with forces operating in conditions including extreme heat and winds that accelerate the spread of flames. Heavy traffic congestion has been reported in the area.