The Israeli Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection announced that water quality in several bodies of water in northern Israel was below standard. Laboratory analysis of water samples taken on August 16 and 17 revealed that fecal bacteria levels were significantly above standard.
The maximum allowable limit of bacteria in 100 milliliters of water was set at 400 units. However, this indicator exceeded the norm in the Banias, Hasbani, and Jordan rivers, as well as in the Jilbon, Zaki, Yehudia, Tzalmon, Kziv, and Meshushim water bodies.
The highest bacteria concentration was recorded in the Meshushim pool — 3,400 units per 100 milliliters of water, and at the Yehudia waterfall — 3,000 units. In the Tzalmon pool, 2,900 units were recorded, and in the Hasbani River, 2,300 units of bacteria.
Taking into account possible health risks, the ministries recommend refraining from swimming in these water bodies until follow-up testing confirms that water quality has returned to normal.
At this time, the source of the pollution has not been identified. Specialists from relevant agencies continue to monitor the situation in the region.
Source: newsru.co.il
