Israel Alert: High turbidity in seawater prompts shutdown of five desalination plants on August 31; adhere to authorities’ instructions

Aug 2026

14:28 UTC

Israel’s Water Authority reported that severe seawater turbidity prompted the temporary shutdown of five desalination plants to prevent damage to the facilities.
The affected facilities reportedly include Ashkelon, Ashdod, Palmahim, Sorek A, and Sorek B.
The shutdowns have reportedly disrupted water supplies in southern and central Israel, prompting authorities to urge residents to “make informed use” of water and limit agricultural consumption.
The disruption has reportedly also affected Tel Aviv, where authorities are reducing irrigation and watering of public landscaping.
Authorities have not issued directives to reduce residential or commercial water use in Tel Aviv, as of writing.

Source: Israel Water Authority

Those operating or residing in Israel on August 31 and over the coming days are advised to remain cognizant of disruptions to water supply over the coming hours.
Remain cognizant of authorities’ updates regarding disruptions to specific areas and adhere to authorities’ instructions regarding water use.
It is advised to ensure an adequate supply of bottled water and consider accumulating tap water beforehand to provide for sanitation and cooking purposes, due to the possibility of extended supply disruptions

High

Nationwide; Israel

Medium

Confirmed

Israel’s Water Authority reported that severe seawater turbidity prompted the temporary shutdown of five desalination plants to prevent damage to the facilities.
The affected facilities reportedly include Ashkelon, Ashdod, Palmahim, Sorek A, and Sorek B.
The shutdowns have reportedly disrupted water supplies in southern and central Israel, prompting authorities to urge residents to “make informed use” of water and limit agricultural consumption.
The disruption has reportedly also affected Tel Aviv, where authorities are reducing irrigation and watering of public landscaping.
Authorities have not issued directives to reduce residential or commercial water use in Tel Aviv, as of writing.

Source: Israel Water Authority

Those operating or residing in Israel on August 31 and over the coming days are advised to remain cognizant of disruptions to water supply over the coming hours.
Remain cognizant of authorities’ updates regarding disruptions to specific areas and adhere to authorities’ instructions regarding water use.
It is advised to ensure an adequate supply of bottled water and consider accumulating tap water beforehand to provide for sanitation and cooking purposes, due to the possibility of extended supply disruptions

High

Nationwide; Israel

Medium

Confirmed

Service Failure