Unusual virus outbreak hits about 20% of Israel’s watermelon fields

An unusual virus outbreak has affected about 20% of Israel’s watermelon growing area. Because of the damage, Keren Kedem LeNzekei Teva baHaklaut, known as KANAT, approved the destruction of about 1,000 dunams of watermelon fields across the country, with fears that more acreage may also be destroyed.

The virus attacks crops in the cucurbit family. It appears every year as part of the normal agricultural cycle, but this year’s outbreak is being described as exceptional and significantly larger than usual.

According to the report, the current spread is about five to six times the annual average, making it a major event for watermelon growers in Israel. No further details were provided on where the outbreak began or how many farms are directly affected beyond the broad national estimate.