Unusual pollution in eight northern streams: warning against entering the water

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection announced abnormal results in water tests at eight streams in the north, where high concentrations of fecal coliform bacteria were found. The tests were conducted on October 20. The ministries warn against entering the water until normal results are received. The source of the pollution has not yet been identified.

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection announced today (Thursday) abnormal results in water tests at eight streams in northern Israel, indicating bacterial contamination. The tests were conducted on October 20 and found concentrations of fecal coliform bacteria exceeding the Ministry of Health's recommendation of 400 bacteria per 100 milliliters of water. Among the sites where abnormalities were found: the Jordan River at several bridges (600-940 bacteria), the Hexagon Pool (920), Nahal Gilbon (860), Nahal Zaki (690), Nahal Tzalmon (700), Nahal Yehudia (540), Majrasa (500), and Nahal El Al (420). The ministries warn against entering the water until normal results are received. The source of the pollution has not yet been identified by the Ministry of Environmental Protection. The tests are routinely conducted every two weeks by inspectors from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.