Jerusalem Chokes on Toxic Dust as Pollution Sparks Urgent Health Alert
Israel is grappling with a historic heatwave, with temperatures potentially breaking 80-year records, alongside severe air pollution in Jerusalem and surrounding areas due to dust from Jordan. Authorities have issued health warnings, urging vulnerable populations and the public to limit outdoor activities to reduce risks from hazardous air quality.
Israel is enduring an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring to levels not seen in over 80 years, compounded by a severe air pollution crisis in Jerusalem, Yehudah, Shomron, and the Jordan Valley. On August 11, 2025, the Health and Environmental Protection Ministries issued urgent warnings about dangerously high levels of respirable particulate matter, triggered by powerful winds carrying dust from Jordan’s deserts. The pollution, which began Sunday night, has reduced visibility and caused discomfort among residents, with some reporting feelings of suffocation.
The heatwave, intensifying through the week, is forecast to push temperatures in Jerusalem to 101°F (38.3°C) on Monday, 102°F (38.9°C) on Tuesday, 104°F (40°C) on Wednesday, and 103°F (39.4°C) on Thursday. The Jordan Valley and areas near the Kinneret are expected to hit 118–120°F (47.8–48.9°C) and 122–124°F (50–51.1°C), respectively, potentially surpassing records set in 1942. Extreme heat stress is anticipated nationwide, particularly in mountainous and eastern regions, with tropical humidity and possible thunderstorms in the Negev adding to the volatile weather.
The ministries warned that the dust, driven by storm clouds over Jordan, has created hazardous air quality, urging vulnerable groups, those with heart, lung, or vascular conditions, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. The general public is advised to minimize exertion and prolonged exposure to the haze. “Due to high concentrations of respirable particles, sensitive populations should completely avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors,” the ministries stated, adding that the broader population should “reduce strenuous outdoor activity as much as possible.”
The Environmental Protection Ministry noted that similar conditions may persist throughout the week, particularly in the Negev, where thunderstorms could stir additional dust. Residents are urged to monitor air quality updates on the ministry’s website and remain vigilant, as the heatwave has also driven record-breaking electricity consumption. The combination of extreme heat and pollution underscores the need for caution to mitigate health risks.