Heatwave Peaks in Jordan Valley at 45°C as Israel Faces Extreme Heat

Israel is experiencing the peak of a heatwave on Sunday, August 2, 2026, with temperatures soaring across the country. The highest temperatures are expected in the Jordan Valley, reaching between 45 and 46 degrees Celsius. Other regions will also see significant heat, with the southern areas and the Golan Heights reaching 38 to 40 degrees, the mountains 35 to 36 degrees, the Shephelah 35 to 38 degrees, and the coastal plain 31 to 33 degrees.

Humidity levels vary across regions, affecting the perceived heat. Inland and mountainous areas will feel drier due to low humidity, while the coastal plain will experience heavy heat combined with 60 to 70 percent humidity. Overall, the heat burden is expected to be heavy to extreme in most parts of Israel. Temperatures are 2 to 5 degrees above the monthly average but are not breaking any records. Such heatwaves occur annually, sometimes multiple times in August. Last August saw an extreme and prolonged heatwave lasting eight days, with record highs near 50 degrees in Gilgal in the Jordan Valley and seven consecutive days above 40 degrees in Jerusalem.

Temperatures are forecasted to begin dropping on Monday but will remain very hot. By Tuesday and especially Wednesday, temperatures will return to typical August levels. Authorities advise the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., and use sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. They also warn against leaving children or pets in parked cars due to life-threatening heat buildup and recommend keeping animals in shaded, ventilated areas with water access.