May 8th, 2025: In anticipation of Lag BaOmer and the current heatwave conditions, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has announced a complete ban on lighting bonfires in forests, picnic sites, and open areas under its management.
The ban will be in effect nationwide for one week, from May 9 through midnight, Sunday, May 18, covering the holiday period of Lag BaOmer (May 15-16).
This precautionary measure comes in response to extreme weather conditions that significantly increase the risk of wildfires spreading across the country.
Rami Zaritsky, KKL-JNF’s Emergency Forest Fire Protection Officer, warned: “This year we’ve already witnessed massive fires. In just seconds, flames turned lush green areas into scorched black expanses, recovery will take years. The current heatwave dramatically increases the fire risk, and we urge the public not to light any bonfires on KKL-JNF lands during Lag BaOmer.”
KKL-JNF calls on the public to follow safety guidelines and celebrate Lag BaOmer responsibly, while protecting nature and public safety.