VIDEO: Royal Air Force responds to massive forest fire spreading in northern Jordan

A large forest fire broke out Thursday evening, engulfing vast wooded areas stretching between Ajloun and Jerash, according to eyewitnesses.

The blaze, which spread rapidly due to dry conditions, sent thick columns of smoke billowing into the sky, visible from kilometers away.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) was promptly deployed to assist firefighting efforts, conducting aerial water drops to contain the fire and prevent its spread toward residential zones. Ground emergency teams focused on creating firebreaks and controlling the blaze.

According to the spokesperson for the Public Security Directorate, Civil Defense firefighting teams, supported by the Royal Air Force, police, gendarmerie, and Jerash Agriculture Directorate, managed to extinguish the fire within a few hours. The fire consumed large areas of dry grass and forest in Jerash Governorate.

The spokesperson highlighted that due to the region's rugged terrain, the joint efforts and use of modern equipment along with aerial support played a key role in quickly controlling the fire and preventing it from spreading further. Fortunately, there were no casualties.

Firefighters continue cooling and monitoring hotspots to prevent re-ignition, while relevant authorities have launched an investigation into the fire’s causes.