Published: 8 September 2020
Last updated: 4 March 2024
Extreme heatwaves to become regular occurrence in Israel, expert warns (Ynet)
Head of climatology at IMS predicts the trend will continue throughout this century, with the temperatures rising from 3 to 4 degrees on average; both Jerusalem and Eilat posted record-breaking temperatures over the weekend
Hottest day in Israeli history as Eilat and Jerusalem record unprecedented highs (Times of Israel)
Israel on Friday experienced its hottest recorded day ever — meaning in at least 100 years.
The southern coastal resort city of Eilat recorded an unprecedented 48.9°C (120°F) high, Channel 12 reported.
After Thursday saw Jerusalem record its highest ever temperature, Friday’s figures edged that one out, setting a new record of 42.8°C (109°F). The current heatwave has been unprecedented for Jerusalem, which usually enjoys slightly cooler weather than the rest of the country thanks to its location and relatively high altitude at some 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level.
Emergency medics scrambled to keep up with nearly 200 heat-related injuries nationwide.
In light of the heat, the authorities slightly eased a COVID-19 restriction: The government’s coronavirus czar Ronni Gamzu told Channel 12 that while there would be no change to policies regarding mask-wearing in light of the heatwave, those who find themselves alone at a park or beach would be allowed to remove their mask.
Hot in the Holy City: Jerusalem breaks 120-year record (Haaretz)
As glacial lakes grow and the Amazon burns, the good news is that replacing steak with tofu won’t give you moobs
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Israel's marine life contamination points to larger problem (Ynet)
Recent research shows that marine life in various parts of Israel's coastline are suffering from contamination caused by pharmaceutical residue, hinting at imminent large-scale pollution that would harm both fish and humans.
Photo: A Palestinian man cools off under a waterfall at Wadi Qelt, near Jericho, on September 4 (AP/Nasser Nasser)
