A recent extreme heatwave in the Middle East has brought the hottest nights on record, notably in Israel and Jordan.
On Tuesday night in Sedom, Israel, temperatures did not drop below 36.6°C, breaking the previous national minimum temperature record of 35.5°C. This was the highest nighttime temperature recorded in Israel since measurements began. Similarly, several parts of Jordan experienced nighttime temperatures above 35°C on Monday.
The impact stretched beyond Israel to neighboring countries like Jordan and parts of the UAE, where temperatures soared to the mid-40s Celsius with high humidity and dust.
During the day, temperatures have soared to nearly 50°C in some interior regions of Israel, including the Jordan Valley and areas around the Sea of Galilee. For example, the Gilgal kibbutz recorded a daytime high of 49.7°C. Cities like Eilat also broke nighttime heat records with lows around 35.8°C.
Aqaba, a port on the Red Sea, broke Jordan’s national heat record with a daytime maximum of 49.6C.
These relentless hot conditions led to warnings by medical professionals to avoid physical activity to prevent heatstroke and other health risks. The heatwave peaked around mid-August 2025 and brought unusual weather patterns such as thunderstorms and rare rain in Jerusalem alongside the intense heat.
This heatwave is part of a broader trend with climate experts warning of rising temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events in the region.
The extreme nighttime heat is particularly concerning as it limits relief and rest for people suffering through the day’s heat. Authorities urged precautions including staying hydrated and limiting outdoor exposure during peak heat hours.