Israel Faces Hottest Week of Summer So Far with Temperatures Above Average

After a relatively mild first half of the summer, the current week in Israel is shaping up to be the hottest so far this season. Temperatures are moderately above average by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius, but no historical heat records are expected to be broken. June and early July were generally near or below average temperatures, with last week marking a return to average conditions before this week's peak heat.

Looking at recent years, July has consistently been hotter than average, with 2024 recorded as the hottest July since measurements began. However, this year’s July is expected to end close to the average, a rare occurrence last seen in 2019. Over the past two decades, an average July has become unusual, occurring roughly once every five years.

The hottest days are forecast for Sunday and the upcoming Saturday. Saturday morning will start relatively cool due to Friday’s cooling trend, but temperatures will quickly rise again, especially inland, creating a dry heat similar to current conditions but more intense. In the Shfela region, temperatures will range between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius, while mountainous areas will see around 33 degrees. Coastal plains will remain around 30 to 31 degrees but with high humidity reaching about 70%, making the heat feel nearly unbearable. The Jordan Valley will experience extreme heat, with temperatures between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius, representing severe heat stress.

This forecast highlights the ongoing trend of warming summers in Israel, though this year shows a slight deviation with July temperatures closer to the norm. Residents should prepare for intense heat, especially in inland and valley areas, while coastal zones will contend with oppressive humidity.