Key facts
- An unprecedented algae bloom has disrupted five of Israel's six major desalination plants.
- The bloom is suspected to be linked to untreated sewage flowing from Gaza's damaged wastewater system.
- Desalination normally provides at least 65% of Israel's drinking water.
- Scientists are investigating the exact cause, considering factors like pollution, warming seas, and natural currents.
- Authorities have increased water supplies from alternative sources to compensate for the plant shutdowns.
An unprecedented algae bloom has spread along Israel's Mediterranean coast, forcing the temporary shutdown of five of the country's six major desalination plants. Scientists are investigating the cause, with untreated sewage from Gaza's damaged wastewater system cited as a potential contributing factor.
Desalination normally provides at least 65% of Israel's drinking water. The affected plants include Ashkelon, Ashdod, Palmachim, Sorek A, and Sorek B. Mekorot, Israel's national water company, confirmed the shutdowns. While authorities increased supplies from the Sea of Galilee, groundwater wells, and reservoirs to maintain stability, the event has exposed the fragility of Israel's reliance on desalination.
Scientists are assessing the environmental fallout from Gaza's wastewater infrastructure, which has been heavily damaged during the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate approximately 40,000 cubic meters of untreated wastewater are flowing into the sea daily from Gaza. Experts like Avner Gross from Ben-Gurion University suggest that pollution from Gaza, combined with warm waters and nutrients, could have created a 'perfect storm' for the bloom.
Other potential factors being considered include pollution from Egypt's Nile Delta, warming Mediterranean waters, strong sunlight, currents, and a recent storm that increased water turbidity. Some researchers, like Tamar Guy-Haim, believe the probability of Gaza sewage being the main driver is relatively low, while others, such as Edo Bar-Zeev, warn that such events could become more frequent due to climate change.