Israel's Desalination Plants Partially Recover After Two Weeks

Nearly two weeks after a nationwide crisis disrupted operations, Israel's desalination system is showing gradual recovery, though full normal capacity has not yet been reached. All coastal desalination facilities have resumed operations, but only the Hadera plant is currently functioning at its maximum output. The other five facilities, which were impacted by the unusual shutdown, are operating at only 40% to 50% of their capacity.

The disruption primarily affected farmers in southern Israel, who were forced to reduce or halt irrigation for their crops due to water scarcity. Local authorities also urged the public to conserve water by limiting non-essential uses like watering gardens, washing cars, and filling swimming pools.

Israel operates six privately owned desalination plants along its coast: Ashkelon, Palmahim, Sorek A, Sorek B, Ashdod, and Hadera. The malfunction was reportedly triggered by an algae bloom originating from the Nile Delta, affecting all facilities south of Hadera.