Region Smashes Heat Records: “Hellish” Nights Grip jordan and Israel Amidst Unprecedented Heatwaves
BREAKING: Jordan and Israel are grappling with their hottest nights on record, with temperatures in the Levant region soaring to levels scientists are now describing as “hellish.” This extreme heatwave intensifies concerns over public health and the escalating impacts of climate change.
Overnight temperatures in parts of Jordan and Israel have shattered previous records, creating deeply uncomfortable and dangerous conditions. On a recent Monday night, locations like Ghor es-Safi and Aqaba in Jordan experienced a minimum temperature of 35°C (95°F). Even the capital, Amman, saw its nighttime temperatures remain above a blistering 31.8°C (89.2°F).
Across the border, Israel’s meteorologists reported an remarkable nighttime minimum of 36°C (96.8°F) in Sedom, marking a meaningful record for the area. Fayha al-Shibli, a climate scientist at the University of Jordan, described the experience vividly, stating, “It’s like your walking in a sauna.”
The Peril of “Hellish” Nights
medical professionals are particularly concerned about these persistent warm nights. Unlike established terms such as “tropical nights” (above 20°C in Europe) or “equatorial/torrid” nights (above 25°C in Spain), these extreme nocturnal temperatures, often breaching 30°C, leave little respite for the human body.
Doctors highlight that these prolonged periods without cooling exacerbate the damage caused by intense daytime heatwaves. Without adequate rest, bodies are less able to recover from the stress, contributing to a significant, yet often overlooked, rise in heat-related mortality.
Record-Breaking Daytime Extremes
The relentless heat is not confined to the night. Daytime temperatures have also reached alarming peaks. Israel and the Palestinian territories have seen highs approaching 50°C (122°F).
the Israel Meteorological Service confirmed that Gilgal kibbutz in the occupied West Bank recorded 49.7°C (121.5°F) on a recent Wednesday, setting a historical record for the Jordan Valley. Aqaba, Jordan’s Red Sea port city, also broke a national record with a daytime high of 49.6°C (121.3°F).
In Gaza,while temperatures were slightly lower,they still surpassed 40°C (104°F). The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) noted that the extreme heat is worsening an already dire situation by increasing dehydration. Limited electricity and fuel availability further hinder relief efforts for displaced populations.
| Location | Nighttime Minimum (Record) | Daytime Maximum (Record) |
|---|---|---|
| Ghor es-Safi, Jordan | > 35°C (95°F) | N/A |
| Aqaba, Jordan | > 35°C (95°F) | 49.6°C (121.3°F) |
| Amman, Jordan | > 31.8°C (89.2°F) | N/A |
| Sedom, Israel | 36°C (96.8°F) | N/A |
| Gilgal Kibbutz, West Bank | N/A | 49.7°C (121.5°F) |
Contributing Factors and expert Insights
Meteorologists suggest that extreme low altitudes, such as that of Ghor es-Safi situated 350 meters below sea level on the Dead Sea’s shores, significantly amplify heat. This phenomenon is comparable to temperature increases experienced when descending in elevation.
Fayha al-Shibli emphasized that while communities can adapt to gradual climatic shifts, sudden and extreme temperature increases pose a greater risk. “People can adapt to gradual changes, but can be caught off-guard by a sudden jump,” she explained.
Did You Know? 2025 has already seen unprecedented nighttime heat intensity in many parts of Jordan, surpassing previous years in terms of the sheer heat experienced during the night.
Pro Tip: As heatwaves intensify, staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces and remaining hydrated are critical. For those without access to cooling,seeking out shaded public areas or utilizing cool cloths can offer some relief.
The Broader Climate Context
The intensification of heatwaves-making them hotter, longer, and more frequent-is widely attributed by scientists to the accumulation of greenhouse gases from fossil fuel pollution. This process traps solar radiation,leading to a consistent rise in global temperatures.
Health ministries across the region have issued crucial advisories, urging citizens to seek shade and maintain hydration. These measures are vital for mitigating the severe health risks associated with such extreme heat conditions.
As the planet continues to warm, understanding and preparing for these extreme weather events becomes increasingly paramount. The current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the immediate and localized impacts of global climate change.
How are you coping with the extreme heat in your region? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
Understanding Extreme Heat: A Persistent Challenge
The recent record-breaking temperatures in Jordan and Israel underscore a growing global trend: the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This phenomenon, linked to climate change driven by human activities like burning fossil fuels, poses significant threats to public health, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
The Intergovernmental panel on climate Change (IPCC) reports consistently highlight that extreme heat events are becoming more severe and common. This trend necessitates proactive adaptation strategies, including urban planning that incorporates green spaces, improved building insulation, and robust early warning systems for heatwaves.
Individuals can take steps to protect themselves. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing, and seeking cooler environments are crucial. For vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, these precautions are even more vital.
The economic impact of heatwaves is also substantial, affecting productivity, agriculture, and energy consumption (due to increased demand for cooling). Long-term solutions require a global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to sustainable energy sources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extreme Heat
Q: What are the primary impacts of “hellish” nights on human health?
A: “hellish” nights prevent the body from recovering from daytime heat, increasing the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and exacerbating chronic health conditions.
Q: Are these extreme temperatures linked to global warming?
A: Yes, scientific consensus points to increased fossil fuel pollution as a driver of climate change, leading to hotter, longer, and more frequent heatwaves.
Q: What is considered an exceptionally hot night in desert climates like Jordan and Israel?
A: While definitions vary, nights consistently above 30°C (86°F), and particularly those reaching or exceeding 35°C (95°F), are considered exceptionally dangerous and indicative of extreme heat stress.
Q: How can low-lying areas experience higher temperatures than coastal regions during heatwaves?
A: Areas significantly below sea level can trap heat more effectively, leading to higher ambient temperatures compared to areas at or above sea level.
Q: What are the recommended safety measures during severe heatwaves?
A: It is crucial to stay hydrated, seek cool environments, wear appropriate clothing, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Q: What is the role of air conditioning in mitigating heat stress?
A: Air conditioning provides essential relief from extreme heat, although access and reliability can be significant issues for vulnerable populations, as seen in Gaza.
What are your strategies for staying cool during intense heatwaves? share your thoughts and advice!
