Israel Faces Intensifying Heatwave With Temperatures Expected to Reach 46.5°C

Israel is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching extreme highs across the country on Saturday. Despite already recording temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius in some areas, meteorologists warn that the peak is yet to come. On Saturday, Jerusalem recorded 36.1°C, while the Judean foothills reached 40°C. Many inland locations, including the northern border area of Dafna, the Hula Valley, Beit She'an, the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, the Arava, and Eilat, saw temperatures exceeding 40°C. Notably, Kfar Nahum near the Sea of Galilee reached 43.5°C, Tiberias 42.5°C, and Beit She'an also 43.5°C. The highest temperature recorded was 45.2°C in Gilgal in the Jordan Valley.

Forecasts indicate that the heatwave will intensify on Sunday, with temperatures expected to climb to around 45°C near the Sea of Galilee and up to 46.5°C in the Jordan Valley. Coastal areas will remain cooler, around 30°C, but high humidity levels of 70-75% will cause oppressive heat conditions there as well. Relief is anticipated only at the start of the week, with a slight temperature drop on Monday, especially in the mountains and inland regions, though heat will remain above average. Winds are expected to strengthen in the afternoons, particularly in elevated and inland areas. The cooling trend will continue on Tuesday, but temperatures will still be warmer than usual for the season, with heavy heat burdens persisting across much of the country.

The heatwave has not deterred public activity, as approximately 60,000 people were reported to have gone hiking across Israel on Saturday despite the intense heat. Authorities and meteorologists continue to monitor the situation closely, urging caution during the peak heat days ahead.