Israelis face floods and fires – scientists' forecast

Scientists predict that by mid-century, Israel will experience record temperature increases, reduced rainfall, and transformation of the coastal zone. Extreme heat above 45 degrees Celsius will become common, and tropical nights will deprive the body of recovery. Rainfall will become less frequent but more intense, leading to local flooding. The Mediterranean Sea level will continue to rise, threatening beaches and buildings. Dried vegetation will increase the risk of large-scale fires.

Scientists predict that by mid-century, Israel will face record temperature increases, reduced rainfall, and transformation of the coastal zone. Extreme heat above 45 degrees Celsius will become common in coastal plains and southern regions. Tropical nights will deprive the body of recovery, negatively impacting public health. Rainfall patterns will change: prolonged droughts will be replaced by heavy downpours that urban drainage systems cannot handle, leading to regular local flooding. The Mediterranean Sea level will continue to rise, accelerating coastal cliff erosion and threatening beaches, roads, and buildings. Dried vegetation will turn forests into sources of large-scale fires, especially dangerous for settlements near green areas. Agriculture will be impacted due to shifts in seasonal rains. Coastal ecosystems, including the coral reefs of the Gulf of Eilat, will face warming and increased salinity. The article references a publication by 'Segodnya' and notes that despite a developed desalination system protecting against drinking water shortages, reduced rainfall will negatively affect rivers, soil, and natural ecosystems. Analysts note a gap between government climate declarations and actual steps.