Health Authorities Warn Against Entering Contaminated Northern Israel Streams During Bein Hazmanim

Ahead of the Bein Hazmanim vacation period when many yeshiva students and families travel, Israel's Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection have issued warnings about water contamination in several northern streams. Water samples taken on July 20, 2026, revealed bacterial contamination levels exceeding health guidelines in multiple locations.

Significant contamination was detected in streams including Hatzbani at the confluence promenade (near the Jordan River), various points along the Jordan River from Joseph's Bridge to Arik Bridge, the Hexagon Pool, Gilabon waterfall, Zaki stream, Tzalmon pool, and Ein Hardalit spring. For example, bacterial counts reached 2,500 at the Hexagon Pool and 3,000 at Tzalmon's Haruv pool, far above safe limits.

Due to these findings, authorities advise against entering the water in these streams until further testing confirms the contamination levels have returned to safe and stable conditions. The affected sites are Hatzbani promenade, the Jordan River from Joseph's Bridge to Arik Bridge, Hexagon Pool, Gilabon, Zaki, Tzalmon's Haruv pool, and Ein Hardalit.

Officials emphasize public safety during the popular vacation period and recommend avoiding swimming or wading in these waters to prevent health risks associated with bacterial pollution.