Israel Faces Peak of Intense Heatwave with Red Alerts Across the Country

Israel is experiencing the peak of a severe summer heatwave coinciding with the peak of the Bein Hazmanim period. The Meteorological Service has issued red alerts for extreme heat in multiple regions including the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea area, the Negev, and the northern parts of the country. Temperatures are expected to rise slightly today, with oppressive heat in the mountains and inland areas, while coastal plains will remain milder. Heat stress will be heavy to extreme nationwide, with strengthening winds expected in the afternoon, especially in mountainous and inland regions.

Tonight will be mostly clear, but the red heat warnings remain in effect for areas such as Beit She'an Valley, Kinneret Basin, Jordan Valley, northern and southern parts of the Judean Desert and Dead Sea, and the Arava. Additional red alerts cover the southern Golan Heights, eastern Lower Galilee, Hula Valley, northeastern Samaria, and parts of the Negev.

The forecast for Monday predicts a slight temperature drop mainly in the mountains and inland, but conditions will still be hotter than usual with continued heavy to extreme heat stress across the country. Winds will again strengthen in the afternoon. Tuesday will bring further cooling, especially in the mountains and inland, but temperatures will remain above seasonal averages with ongoing heavy heat stress in most areas.

Specific temperature forecasts for today include Jerusalem at 24-34°C, Tel Aviv 26-34°C, Beersheba 24-37°C, Haifa 26-33°C, Tiberias 25-41°C, Safed 30-35°C, and Eilat 32-43°C. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.