Israel Braces for Extreme Heat Wave

Israel’s Health Ministry issued a warning today (Thursday) as the Israel Meteorological Service forecasted heavy to extreme heat across the country from Thursday through Sunday. The ministry urged the public to avoid sun exposure, stay hydrated, and remain in air-conditioned spaces to mitigate risks during the scorching conditions.

Most regions will face harsh heat, with temperatures expected to soar into the upper 90s and exceed 100°F in southern areas. The ministry advised minimizing outdoor activity and physical exertion, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and young children, who should avoid outdoor time altogether, as reported by Israel National news.

Recommended precautions include wearing wide-brimmed hats, light-colored clothing, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when outdoors. The ministry strictly warned against leaving children, infants, the elderly, helpless individuals, or animals in vehicles, even briefly, or in non-air-conditioned spaces without water access.

The ministry highlighted the danger of heat-related illnesses, particularly heatstroke, which can impair the body’s ability to cool itself. At-risk groups include infants, the elderly, those with heart or respiratory conditions, people with obesity, and individuals on certain medications. Symptoms like high body temperature (above 103°F), red and dry skin, rapid pulse, severe headaches, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness require immediate medical attention. Until help arrives, affected individuals should be moved to a shaded, cool area and cooled down, but fluids should only be administered by medical professionals.