Health

By Pesach Benson • August 6, 2025

Jerusalem, 6 August, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel is set to experience a severe heat wave beginning Thursday, bringing unusually high temperatures and abnormal humidity across the country — including regions typically spared from such conditions.

The heat wave is expected to last several days, with severe to extreme heat prevailing nationwide through the weekend. Temperatures are forecast to approach 40°C in many areas, including the mountains and eastern regions. This time, the heat will be accompanied by elevated humidity levels — not just along the coast, but also inland and at higher elevations, where such conditions are uncommon.

Forecasters say the heat could intensify further by midweek. If temperatures rise as expected, mountain regions may exceed 40°C for the first time since 2020. Still, this event is not considered historic, and it does not break national heat records.

In a rare turn for August, forecasters also predict possible localized rainfall on Saturday and Sunday, particularly in the southern Negev and near the Israel-Egypt border. These showers could be heavy and may include thunderstorms.

Authorities advise the public to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak hours, and monitor weather updates—especially in areas at risk of flash flooding.

Magen David Adom medics treated several heat-related emergencies on Tuesday, including a 42-year-old woman in Ramat Gan suffering from severe heatstroke. In separate incidents, a toddler and an 8-year-old boy were moderately injured after being left in closed vehicles in Jerusalem and Rishon LeZion.

A new 2025 temperature record was set in the Dead Sea region on Tuesday, with 47.4°C recorded at the Sodom station — the third-highest temperature ever measured there, just below the 2018 and 2019 records of 47.9°C and 49.9°C. Elsewhere, the Jordan Valley and Sea of Galilee saw highs of 44°C, while Tel Aviv experienced extreme heat stress with 33°C and 70% humidity.