Israel Faces Intense Heatwave Despite Calendar Start of Autumn

Israel is experiencing a significant heatwave, with temperatures expected to remain high across the country in the coming days, despite the official start of autumn. On Wednesday, September 2, the weather will be clear with light winds of up to 5.1 m/s. Temperatures will continue to rise slightly, remaining well above average for early September, particularly in mountainous and central regions. The coastal plain will feel muggy due to high humidity.

Sea temperatures are also elevated: the Mediterranean Sea will reach 30 degrees Celsius with moderate waves (50-80 cm), the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) 32 degrees with waves of 20-50 cm, the Red Sea (Eilat Bay) 28 degrees with low waves (20-40 cm), and the Dead Sea 30 degrees with calm waters.

Air temperatures in major cities include Jerusalem at 32°C day/19°C night, Tel Aviv at 31°C day/24°C night, Haifa at 31°C day/23°C night, and Eilat reaching a high of 39°C day/29°C night. Inland cities like Be'er Sheva will see 34°C day/23°C night, while the Dead Sea area (Ein Gedi) will experience 38°C day/28°C night.

Starting Thursday, September 3, a gradual decrease in temperature is anticipated, leading to reduced heat stress and a return to seasonal norms. Thursday will be partly cloudy with clearer spells, and the temperature drop will be most noticeable in the mountains. High humidity will persist along the coast. Friday, September 4, will continue with partly cloudy skies and a slow temperature decline, primarily in the mountains and central areas, bringing temperatures back to average. Saturday, September 5, is expected to see no significant weather changes.