Israel Faces Extreme Heat Wave With Temperatures Up to 47°C and Fire Risks

A severe heat wave is set to begin in Israel on Friday, peaking over the weekend with temperatures reaching up to 47 degrees Celsius, according to the Israeli Meteorological Service. The heat wave will bring dry conditions, strong winds in the north, and an increased risk of wildfires across the country. The hottest areas are expected to be around the Sea of Galilee and the northern valleys, where Sunday could see record-breaking temperatures not seen in 30 years.

The meteorological service warned that heavy to extreme heat stress will affect all regions, with the highest temperatures forecasted in the Jordan Valley at 46 degrees Celsius, the Arava and Sea of Galilee areas at 44 to 45 degrees, and the Golan Heights, northern valleys, Galilee, and Negev ranging from 38 to 42 degrees. Coastal and mountainous areas will experience temperatures between 35 and 36 degrees. On Thursday, temperatures began rising slightly, with hot to very hot weather inland and milder conditions along the coast.

Visibility restrictions due to local fog are expected overnight in parts of the southern coastal plain, the southern Sharon region, and northwest Negev. The heat wave is expected to continue until mid-next week, with the most intense heat from Friday through Sunday. Specific temperature forecasts for Thursday and Thursday night include Jerusalem at 33-21°C, Tel Aviv 32-25°C, Haifa 31-24°C, Tiberias 39-24°C, Beersheba 37-22°C, and Eilat 42-30°C.

The meteorological service emphasized the need for caution due to the combination of extreme heat, dry conditions, and strong winds, which heighten the risk of fires and health impacts. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions during this period of intense heat.