While Jerusalemites and Israelis in other areas are feeling a bit of relief on Wednesday, 20 Menachem Av, the unseasonably hot temperatures that began last week are still with us. While the heat index on Tuesday made it feel like 107 F, today it is down to 99 F, hot but a significant difference.

The harsh weather has resulted in a number of people, including children and infants being hospitalized due to weather-related injuries.

Since Sunday, 17 Menachem Av, four persons were treated in Beersheva’s Soroka Medical Center, all adults. All of the victims of the heat arrived with a body temperature exceeding 40 C (104 F). One of the victims were unconscious, admitted to an intensive care unit and connected to a respirator. His condition improved during the night and he is now listed in moderate condition.

While there is some relief on Wednesday, and the same is expected on Thursday and Friday, Shabbos will be hotter. At present, the forecast for Shabbos in Jerusalem is 96 F with the heat stress bringing it to 101 F.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)