65,000 Hikers Visit Israeli Nature Reserves Despite Intense Heatwave

Despite ongoing heavy to extreme heat conditions across much of Israel, approximately 65,000 visitors explored the country's nature reserves and national parks over the weekend, according to the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. Popular destinations included Achziv Beach National Park, Gan HaShlosha, and Tel Ashkelon. Additionally, over 7,000 hikers spent the weekend at the authority's designated overnight camping sites.

Following recent temperature spikes, a slight cooling trend began on Saturday, particularly in mountainous and inland areas, though high heat levels persisted. A further modest temperature drop is expected on Sunday, which should ease the heat burden somewhat.

Temperature forecasts for Sunday indicate highs ranging from 31 degrees Celsius in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to 40 degrees in Eilat, with other cities like Tiberias reaching 39 degrees and Beersheba 34 degrees. The continued heatwave underscores the resilience of outdoor enthusiasts despite challenging weather conditions.