After wildfires, Israel hit by fierce sandstorm in southern region

Southern Israel faced a double blow as a powerful sandstorm swept through the region while firefighters continued to combat raging wildfires in multiple areas.

The intense sandstorm dramatically reduced visibility, disrupted daily life, and posed serious health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

As the skies turned orange and dust blanketed towns, emergency services were further hampered in their efforts to control the wildfires already threatening homes and natural landscapes.

Strong winds carried by the sandstorm fueled the spread of flames, making firefighting operations more dangerous and unpredictable.

Read more: Israeli PM Netanyahu declares 'national emergency' amid decade's most devastating wildfires

Several localities reported electricity outages and road closures, prompting authorities to urge residents to stay indoors and limit travel.

Officials are actively coordinating response efforts, warning that the combination of dry weather, high winds, and poor air quality could escalate the crisis if conditions persist.

The wildfire coincided with Israel’s Memorial Day for dead soldiers and its Independence Day. Authorities in Tel Aviv have since canceled all ceremonies and related events.

So far, no injuries have been reported, but the situation remains critical with emergency services on high alert.