Heatwave Peaks Saturday with Extreme Temperatures and Fire Risks Across Israel

Israel is currently experiencing a significant heatwave, with temperatures rising above normal levels and heavy heat burdens expected throughout most regions. On Thursday, the weather was hot to very hot in the mountains and inland areas, while the coastal plain remained cooler. Nighttime conditions will be clear to partly cloudy, with possible localized fog reducing visibility in southern coastal plains, the Shephelah, and northwest Negev.

Friday will continue with clear skies and hot to very hot conditions in the mountains and inland, with mild temperatures along the coast. Heavy to extreme heat burdens will persist nationwide. The heatwave is forecasted to reach its peak on Saturday, bringing hot to very hot weather in the mountains and inland, and mild conditions along the coastal plain. Extreme heat burdens will affect all parts of the country, accompanied by a heightened risk of wildfires.

The hottest area is expected to be around the Sea of Galilee and the northern valleys, where temperatures could soar to 47 degrees Celsius on Sunday. Dr. Amir Givati, head of the Meteorological Service, noted that if this forecast materializes, it will break a 30-year-old temperature record of 46.8 degrees Celsius measured in Beit HaYada on August 9, 1998.

Forecasted temperatures for major cities include Jerusalem at 21-33°C, Tel Aviv-Yafo at 25-31°C, Haifa at 24-31°C, Kiryat Shmona at 22-38°C, Safed at 22-35°C, Tiberias at 24-39°C, Ashdod at 23-32°C, Beersheba at 22-37°C, Mitzpe Ramon at 24-36°C, and Eilat at 29-42°C.