Electricity Demand Hits All-Time High as Record-Breaking Heatwave Continues

Israel is baking under an extreme heatwave that has pushed the nation’s electricity consumption to unprecedented levels for the fourth day in a row.

The Independent System Operator for the electricity industry, known in Hebrew as Noga, confirmed that for the first time ever, national power usage exceeded 17,000 megawatts, breaking yesterday’s record of over 16,000 megawatts. At 3:15 p.m., demand peaked at 17,287 megawatts.

“Extreme heat waves are no longer an unusual event, but a reality that will return in the years to come. We are preparing in advance, along with full coordination with electricity producers, smart management of the system and ensuring continuous supply,” said Noga’s director Shiki Fisher.

The Israel Meteorological Service reported that the southern resort city of Eilat sweltered at 47.9°C (118.2°F), while Kfar Blum in the northern Galilee panhandle reached 46.5°C (115.7°F). The same temperature was recorded in Gilgal, a Jordan Valley kibbutz in the West Bank.

Many other inland areas saw temperatures in the 104°F–109°F range, while the humid coastal region stayed slightly cooler at 86°F–95°F.

According to the Israel Electric Corporation, power demand has surged by about 10% as the country struggles with the blistering conditions.

Meteorologists say the extreme heat will intensify in some regions later today, persist through tomorrow, and finally begin to ease over the weekend.