The Israel Meteorological Service said average temperatures measured in Jerusalem, and in the Jordan, Beit Shean and northern valleys were making for the hottest month of June since measurements were recorded, even just midway through the month.

In northern Israel, where temperatures reached 41° C/105 F, firefighters battled blazes sparked by Hezbollah rocket fire. A fire and rescue spokesperson said crews were fighting to put out extensive fires in the Biryeh forest and areas around the municipalities and agricultural communities of Safed, Katzrin, Kibbutz Kfar Szold, Kibbutz El-Rom and Kibbutz Avivim.

The Ministry of Health called on the general public — particularly, the elderly, children, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases — to avoid exposure to heat and the sun, as well as unnecessary physical exertion outdoors. Anyone spending time outdoors is recommended to wear light and comfortable clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, and to drink.

Image - Dor Pazuelo/Flash90