Live Update 
From the Liveblog of
Friday, April 17, 2026
From the Liveblog of
Friday, April 17, 2026
Health Ministry warns Israelis to take precautions due to air pollution from dust storm
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on Google
The beach in Tel Aviv during a dust storm, February 14, 2026. (Erik Marmor/Flash90)
Israelis should take precautions today and tomorrow as regions across the country experience high to very high levels of pollution, the Health Ministry warns.
The pollution results from a dust storm coming out of North Africa, according to Hebrew media reports. It comes on the heels of a heat wave that is expected to break in the coming days.
The ministry advises everyone in the country to avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and says that the elderly, pregnant women, children and those with chronic illness should avoid spending extended periods of time outdoors.
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
The Times of Israel Community.
JOIN THE TOI COMMUNITY
Already a member? Log in here