Mediterranean Algae Bloom Subsides, Israel's Desalination Plants Resume Full Operation

Microscopic algae originating from the Nile River in Egypt, which had significantly disrupted the operation of Israel's desalination plants for nearly a month, are now diminishing, according to government sources. The bloom began in late August, causing turbidity in the Mediterranean Sea and clogging the membranes of most desalination facilities. Initially, five out of six plants were temporarily shut down, with only the northernmost plant near Hadera remaining fully operational as it was less affected by the algae.

Following 24 hours of disruption, primarily impacting the agricultural sector, the southern coastal plain plants resumed partial operations. This led to increased reliance on Israel's groundwater and the Sea of Galilee, both already strained resources due to two consecutive dry years. However, government officials now confirm that the water turbidity caused by the algae is gradually decreasing.

The Sorek A desalination plant has already returned to full capacity, and Sorek B is expected to follow suit imminently. If this trend continues and the damage to the desalination membranes is not severe, Israel's water economy is anticipated to return to full functionality.