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Key Points

Israel is bracing for one of its worst heatwaves in decades, with temperatures expected to near historic highs. The Jordan Valley could reach 51°C, while Jerusalem may top 40°C, prompting health warnings. Authorities have closed hiking trails in high-risk areas to prevent heat-related emergencies. In a rare rescue, police saved an owl trapped in a sweltering car, highlighting the dangers of the extreme heat.

Key Points: Israel Braces for Historic Heatwave With Temperatures Nearing 51°C

  • Jordan Valley may hit 51°C nearing Israel's 1942 record
  • Sea of Galilee could exceed its all-time high at 49°C
  • Police close hiking trails in high-risk desert areas
  • Rescuers save owl trapped in scorching parked car
2 min read

Historic heatwave to grip Israel, authorities warn of health risks

Israel faces record-breaking heatwave with temperatures up to 51°C, prompting health warnings and trail closures. Authorities urge extreme caution.

"An animal that belongs in the wild was being held in poor conditions – Israel Police"

Tel Aviv, August 11

Israel is set to swelter under one of its most intense heatwaves in decades, with forecasters warning of exceptional and possibly historic temperatures early this week.

The Israel Meteorological Service said Sunday that the worst conditions are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday, when the Jordan Valley could climb to 51°C (124°F), approaching the pre-state record of 54°C registered in 1942.

Around the Sea of Galilee, readings may hit 49°C (120°F), surpassing the area's current high of 47°C. Jerusalem is likely to top 40°C (104°F), with unusually severe heat also anticipated in the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights. Tel Aviv is forecast to reach 36°C (97°F), while the Dead Sea region may see 47°C (116°F).

Authorities are already taking precautions. Israel Police announced temporary closures of hiking routes in high-risk zones, including the northern Judean Desert, Nahal Prat and parts of the Jordan Valley, at least through Tuesday. Officials cautioned against outdoor activity during the hottest hours and urged the public to prepare for possible health risks such as dehydration and heatstroke.

The extreme weather also brought an unusual rescue. Police in eastern Jerusalem discovered an owl locked inside a parked vehicle. The bird, which had been kept illegally, was found in stifling conditions that authorities said could have been fatal. "An animal that belongs in the wild was being held in poor conditions," police stated, calling the act irresponsible.

The owl was transferred to a wildlife hospital for examination before its eventual release. (ANI/TPS)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priyanka N
Climate change is real folks! These extreme weather patterns are becoming more common globally. Just last month we had similar warnings in Rajasthan. Time for serious action before it's too late 🌍
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David E
That poor owl! Glad it was rescued in time. People need to understand animals suffer more in such extreme heat. In India too we see many cases of birds falling from heat exhaustion during summers.
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Shreya B
The article mentions approaching 1942 records - shows how climate patterns are repeating. My grandfather used to tell stories about the 1940s heatwaves in Punjab. History coming full circle 😔
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Aman W
While the focus is on Israel, I wish our Indian media gave similar detailed warnings before heatwaves. Often rural areas don't get proper alerts until it's too late. Better forecasting systems needed!
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Michael C
Interesting to see how different regions in Israel have such varied temperatures - from 36°C in Tel Aviv to 51°C in Jordan Valley. Reminds me of how temperatures vary between coastal Mumbai and inland Nagpur during Indian summers.

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