Precautions urged as Israel braces for extreme heat wave
By Thursday temperatures expected to go up around 10°C above average accompanied by high humidity; Jerusalem to reach nearly 40°C (104°F); medics recommend drinking plenty of water
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An extreme heat wave is predicted to drive temperatures around the country up by as much as ten degrees Celsius from Wednesday to Thursday, with the high heat continuing through the weekend and into the start of next week.
The heat will be accompanied by high humidity that will swamp areas beyond the coast, according to forecasters.
The heat wave is expected to continue for about a week.
Temperatures are predicted to be around 8-10°C higher than the average for the beginning of August. In Jerusalem, the temperature, which was a balmy 29°C (84.2°F) on Wednesday, will rise to a scorching 40°C (104°F) on Thursday, while in the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea it will scorch at nearly 50°C (122°F), the Ynet outlet reported.
Tel Aviv will see around 32°C (89.6° F) with 75 percent humidity, forecaster Leor Seduri told Channel 12 in a Monday report, making it feel like 40°C.
The Magen David Adom emergency service issued a statement urging the public to take precautions and to drink plenty of water, recommending at least three liters a day, and to avoid spending prolonged periods in the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Those who need to work outside should wear loose clothing and take frequent breaks to drink water, the service said.
Exercise should only be taken outside in the evening when temperatures are significantly lower.
Care should be taken that vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, infants, and those with disabilities, are not exposed to life-threatening conditions. MDA reiterated the need to double-check that cars are empty when leaving them to ensure no children are left behind, even for a short period. Pets should, as much as possible, be kept indoors, MDA said, with adequate water all day long.
The Times of Israel Community.