High Benzene Levels Near Haifa Refineries Prompt School Closures, Health Warnings
Israeli authorities closed two Kiryat Ata schools and issued health warnings after unusually high benzene concentrations were detected near the Bazan refinery.
environment
State Spending Millions to Combat Desalination Plants Algae Crisis
Israel invested $15 million in desalination plant membranes to counter an algae crisis, but the membranes were not needed and will serve as future inventory.
Haruvit Forest Fire Contained After Burning 150 Acres
A wildfire in Haruvit Forest, south of Route 383, has been contained after burning 150 acres, with arson suspected by Fire and Rescue officials.
Yom Kippur 5787: Very Good Air Quality Recorded Across Israel
Israel's air quality reached exceptionally good levels during Yom Kippur, with nitrogen oxide pollution dropping dramatically nationwide.
Greece, Cyprus and Israel Pick Names for Next Seasons Storms
Greece, Cyprus, and Israel have unveiled their joint list of storm names for the 2026-2027 season, aiming to improve severe weather communication in the eastern.
Desalination Crisis Could Persist for Several More Weeks
A severe algae bloom is drastically reducing output at Israel's desalination plants, potentially lasting for weeks and impacting water supply.
Israel Bans Open-Air Fires Nationwide Amid Rising Fire Risk During Brief Heatwave
Israel has banned open-air fires nationwide from September 16-30 amid a heatwave, with exceptions for areas south of Routes 25 and 34 in the Negev.
Israel Extends Open-Fire Restrictions Amid Extreme Conditions
Israel Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi has extended a nationwide ban on lighting fires in open areas through September 30.
Water Company to Move Desalination Intakes Deeper Offshore to Beat Algae
Mekorot plans to relocate desalination intakes deeper into the Mediterranean Sea to overcome disruptions caused by microalgal blooms and cloudiness.
Israel Police: Over half a ton of pirate gas was seized in balloons stored dangerously during an operation in Daliyat al-Karmel and Usfiya today.
Israel Police seized over 500kg of dangerous "pirate gas" stored improperly in Daliyat al-Karmel and Usfiya, posing environmental and user risks.