Israel Faces Prolonged Water Crisis Due to Algae Clogging Desalination Plants

Israeli authorities are preparing for frequent membrane replacements at water desalination facilities, anticipating that microscopic algae causing blockages will persist in the Mediterranean Sea for an extended period. This assessment follows a recent chemical experiment conducted by the Water Authority off the coast of Ashkelon, aimed at reducing algae levels. While the experiment's results have not been publicly released, a source familiar with the matter told "The Marker" that it was unsuccessful.

Israel operates six desalination plants, with five located in the south, including two in Ashkelon and Ashdod. The sole unaffected plant is in Hadera, which supplies 20% of the country's desalinated water. Two facilities have procured sufficient membranes to manage the necessary replacements, and the Water Authority is reportedly pressuring for membrane purchases for the remaining plants, even considering air freight to expedite delivery.

Despite previous announcements of a return to normal operations, the situation remains critical. Officials involved in assessing the situation describe it as "difficult" and advise preparing for a "long-term crisis." The crisis began last week due to a significant increase in Mediterranean seawater turbidity, attributed to algae originating from Egypt that easily penetrate desalination plant filters, clogging the membranes.

The Ministry of Agriculture has warned of a severe water shortage impacting the agricultural sector, potentially causing significant damage to crops and food supplies, particularly in southern Israel. While two desalination plants resumed partial operations mid-week, concerns about renewed disruptions persist. A third plant operates intermittently due to fluctuating seawater turbidity, and the Ashkelon and Ashdod facilities show no immediate prospect of returning to full capacity.