Health Authorities Warn of Severe Water Contamination in Northern Israel Streams

The Israeli Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection have issued a warning about severe bacterial contamination in several streams in northern Israel. Water samples taken on July 20 revealed dangerously high levels of fecal coliform bacteria exceeding health guidelines. The affected waterways include the Hasbani, Jordan River (from Joseph Bridge to Arik Bridge), Hexagon Pool, Gilabon, Zaki, Tzalmon, and Ein Hardalit streams. The highest contamination levels were recorded at the Haruv Pool in the Tzalmon Stream (3,000 CFU), Hexagon Pool (2,500 CFU), and Arik Bridge on the Jordan River (2,000 CFU). Authorities caution that entering these waters may pose health risks until safe levels are confirmed. The Ministry of Environmental Protection has not yet identified the pollution source and continues to monitor the situation.