Israel is set to endure a week-long heatwave starting Friday, with temperatures in central and eastern parts of the country expected to near 40°C (104°F) for several days. The Israel Meteorological Service forecasts a potential spike above 40°C (104°F) by mid-next week, particularly in Jerusalem, where 38-39°C (100-102°F) is expected over the weekend.
While Jerusalem's record high of 42.7°C (108.9°F) from September 2020 is unlikely to be broken, the Jordan Valley could see temperatures hit 48.5°C (119.3°F), close to the decade-old record of 49.3°C (120.7°F) set in August 2015.
The heatwave’s duration, projected to last through Thursday, marks it as exceptional, with sustained temperatures above 35°C (95°F) for a week—a rare occurrence in Jerusalem, previously recorded only in May and September 2020 and in the 19th century.
Israel Meteorological Service Director Dr. Amir Givati described the heatwave as significant but not unprecedented. “It’s not a record-breaker, but it’s a very significant, even extreme, heatwave due to its duration,” he told Ynet. “We’re looking at 48°C, maybe 49°C (118-120°F) in the Jordan Valley and near 40°C (104°F) in Jerusalem. This happens once every few years.”
He noted unusual weather patterns, including possible rain on Sunday evening near Taba and Sinai, an anomaly for August’s typically dry conditions. “Extreme heat can drive cloud formation, like in tropical regions or Europe, though most Israelis won’t feel this rain,” Givati added.
Prof. Emeritus Pinhas Alpert, a climate expert from Tel Aviv University, linked the prolonged heatwave to global warming. “Extreme weather events are becoming more severe. We’ve been warning about this for 40-50 years,” he said.
“Since the 1980s, warming has accelerated dramatically. By 2050, we could see 10 heatwaves annually, and by 2100, in the worst-case scenario, up to 18 days of extreme heat," he warned.
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Alpert highlighted shifts in seasonal patterns, noting that while Mediterranean climates typically see rain with cooler air, summer rain events are increasing, particularly south of Israel, complicating predictions about future climate trends.
The heatwave will bring heavy humidity, exacerbating conditions. “Even in Jerusalem’s mountains, usually hot but dry, it’ll be relatively humid, creating intense heat stress,” Givati warned. Coastal areas could see 75% humidity, akin to Bangkok or Singapore, making conditions particularly oppressive.
He advised avoiding outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., citing casualties from a previous heatwave as a serious warning. The Health Ministry issued guidelines urging people to stay indoors, avoid direct sun exposure, drink water regularly, and use SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Vulnerable groups—elderly, chronically ill, pregnant women, infants and those with respiratory issues or obesity—require extra caution. Leaving children, elderly, or pets in closed vehicles, even briefly, is strictly warned against, as is leaving animals outdoors without shade or water.
Symptoms of heatstroke, such as a body temperature above 39.5°C (103.1°F), red or dry skin, headaches, dizziness, rapid pulse, confusion, vomiting or reduced consciousness, demand immediate emergency response. “Do not give water to heatstroke victims; stay in a shaded area and cool their body until medical help arrives,” the Health Ministry advised.
Israel's Fire and Rescue Authority warned the public in a previous June heatwave that saw several wildfires start around the northern part of the country to remain vigilant in the heat. It added it was constantly monitoring developments as the heat continues to develop.
With extreme weather events intensifying across the region—France reported its worst wildfires since the 1950s, and Cyprus and Greece faced severe heat—experts stress the need for immediate preparedness to mitigate the accelerating impacts of climate change.