Health Ministries Warn of Dangerous Bacterial Contamination in Northern Israel Waterways
Israel's Ministries of Health and Environmental Protection issued a public warning on September 2, 2026, advising against entering several streams and watercourses in the country's north due to high levels of bacterial contamination posing a risk to public health. Laboratory tests conducted on water samples taken the previous day revealed fecal coliform bacteria levels significantly exceeding the permitted limit of 400 bacteria per 100 milliliters.
The source of the contamination remains unknown, according to the Ministry of Environmental Protection. Consequently, swimming is prohibited until further notice in the following locations: Banias River at Kfar Sold bridge, Hasbani River at the Jordan River confluence park, the Jordan River section from Yusuf Bridge to Arik Bridge (including Five Bridges, Atara Fortress, and others), Mishoshim Pool, Jalbun Stream trail, Zaki Stream trail, Yehudiya Waterfall, and Tsalmon Stream, specifically at the Kharuv Pool.
Authorities stated they will continue regular sampling and water quality monitoring. Updates will be provided to the public once results stabilize and return to safe levels.
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