Israel's Water Crisis Deepens as Desalination Plants Halt Amid Algae Bloom
A special experiment to combat a massive marine algae bloom in Israel has failed to yield expected results, leaving the country's water supply in jeopardy. Two major desalination plants have been completely shut down, and three others are operating at reduced capacity, with authorities uncertain when the situation will normalize. Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen stated that the sea experiment has not led to any significant improvement, as water turbidity remains high and the duration of the bloom is unknown. "Israel Hayom" newspaper reports that more precise data on the experiment's outcome is expected within two days.
The crisis has already impacted key water supply facilities. The Hadera desalination plant is the only one fully operational after nine days of issues. Plants in Ashkelon and Ashdod are completely stopped due to extreme water turbidity, while the Palmachim and Sorek facilities are running partially to prevent filter damage. A worst-case scenario could involve filter and membrane replacement costing tens of millions of shekels, prompting the state and the Water Authority to prepare for the purchase of thousands of new membranes.
Despite the challenges, Minister Cohen assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the water supply. Israel currently consumes approximately 20,000 cubic meters of water per hour, while production capacity stands at around 35,000 cubic meters per hour. Additional water is being used to replenish reservoir reserves. Mekorot has increased water intake from the Sea of Galilee, and hundreds of wells, including dozens of normally unused backup sources, have been activated nationwide.
Looking ahead, authorities are considering extending desalination plant intake pipes further into the sea to access areas with lower algae concentrations, though this would increase production costs. The cause of the bloom is also under investigation. Minister Cohen dismissed links to sewage from Gaza, attributing the bloom to algae originating from the Nile Delta in Egypt, with satellite imagery reportedly tracking their movement.
Israel remains committed to its international obligations, continuing to supply Jordan with 50 million cubic meters of water despite the domestic crisis. While officials maintain that tap water will remain available, the situation at sea is uncertain, with the failed experiment, unknown bloom duration, and partial shutdown of major desalination facilities creating ongoing concern.
