G- Live Desk
Published: 2nd August 2026, 11:09 PM
JERUSALEM — Israel is experiencing an intense summer heatwave, with temperatures climbing toward seasonal peaks across multiple regions, according to meteorological reports published on Sunday, August 2. Forecasters warned that mercury levels could surge up to 45°C near the Sea of Galilee and hit 46.5°C in parts of the Jordan Valley.
Weather forecasts highlight excessively hot, dry conditions across inland and mountainous zones, while elevated atmospheric humidity continues to affect the coastal plain, creating severe heat discomfort nationwide. Wind speeds are expected to intensify during the late afternoon, particularly across elevated interior terrain.
The heatwave intensified sharply over the weekend, pushing local temperatures well past the 40°C threshold in numerous locations:
Jordan Valley & Inland Sites: Gilgal, Capernaum, and Beit She’an all recorded peak afternoon temperatures of 43.5°C.
Jerusalem Region: Oppressive warmth affected the capital area, with Jerusalem’s historic Old City recording 36.1°C and neighboring foothill districts reaching up to 40°C.
Coastal Plain: Air temperatures along the coast remained relatively moderate at around 30°C, but relative humidity reached 75 per cent, generating muggy and hazardous heat stress for residents.
The Israel Meteorological Service projects a gradual cooling trend across the region over the coming days:
Monday: Temperatures will ease slightly across mountain and interior zones, though conditions will remain above average. Persistent coastal humidity will keep heat stress high, accompanied by gusty afternoon winds in elevated areas.
Tuesday: Skies will clear following a partly cloudy morning, with temperatures dropping further inland and at higher altitudes.
Wednesday: Near-normal seasonal conditions are expected to return across internal and mountainous regions, although humid conditions will persist along the coastline.
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