Extreme Heat Wave Hits Most of Israel With Red Alerts Issued

Israel is experiencing a significant heat wave with rising temperatures and extreme heat burdens across most regions, according to the Meteorological Service. On Thursday, after morning cloud dispersal, temperatures will rise slightly, especially in the mountains and inland areas, with heavy heat stress expected. Northern winds will strengthen along the coastal plain in the afternoon, and partly cloudy skies are forecast overnight.

The Meteorological Service issued a red warning for extreme heat in several areas including the Beit She'an Valley, Sea of Galilee basin, Jordan Valley, northern and southern Judean Desert, Dead Sea, and northern Arava. On Friday, temperatures will increase further, remaining hotter than usual and dry in the mountains and inland, while the coastal plain will be cooler. Heat stress will intensify to heavy or extreme levels in most parts of the country.

By Saturday, the beginning of the Sabbath, a slight temperature drop is expected mainly in the mountains and inland, with some relief from the heat stress, though heavy to extreme heat burdens will persist in most areas. Forecasted temperatures for Thursday include Jerusalem 18-32°C, Tel Aviv 24-31°C, Be'er Sheva 22-34°C, Haifa 23-31°C, Tiberias 22-38°C, Safed 17-34°C, and Eilat 28-40°C.

Separately, a tragic incident was reported in Ashdod where a 17-year-old boy died after feeling unwell while meeting friends. Investigations continue into a separate murder case involving Eldar Dayan, with contradictions and falsehoods emerging from witness testimonies.