Heatwaves Increase Hospital Visits and Cost Israeli Healthcare 380 Million Shekels Over a Decade
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
By שני אשכנזי
First reported by Walla · Jul 14, 2026
What happened
A Taub Center study finds that heatwaves in Israel increase emergency room visits and hospital stays for respiratory, cardiovascular, and kidney diseases, costing the healthcare system 380 million shekels over a decade. Higher socioeconomic groups seek emergency care more during heatwaves, possibly due to greater air conditioner use and proximity to hospitals. The study also notes some population adaptation but confirms heatwaves cause significant health and economic impacts.
- 01Heatwaves in Israel raise ER visits for respiratory, cardiovascular, and kidney diseases by up to 41%.
- 02Hospital stays lengthen with increased heat stress, especially among women.
- 03Higher socioeconomic groups use emergency services more during heatwaves, contrary to global trends.
- 04Tel Aviv and Central districts see the largest rise in heat-related emergency visits.
- 05Heatwaves are projected to cost Israel’s healthcare system 380 million shekels over ten years.
- 06Some adaptation to heatwaves is observed, but excess mortality remains significant among vulnerable groups.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 2 outlets
The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.
