Jerusalem, 14 February, 2026 (TPS-IL) — A powerful dust storm swept across Israel on Saturday, blanketing much of the country in thick haze and pushing Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to the top of global air pollution rankings.
Air quality monitors recorded extremely high levels of fine particulate matter, with pollution in several areas classified as “hazardous.” According to IQAir, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv ranked as the most polluted cities in the world during the peak of the event, surpassing cities including Almaty, Lahore and Kolkata.
The haze, which began intensifying around 3 a.m., was caused by strong southwesterly winds carrying dust from North Africa and the Sahara across the Mediterranean. Visibility dropped sharply nationwide as the sky turned a murky orange-gray.
The Health Ministry urged vulnerable groups — including people with heart or lung conditions, the elderly, children and pregnant women — to remain indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Authorities also recommended closing windows, using air purifiers and wearing masks, even indoors where necessary.
The Meteorological Service said the dust cloud is gradually moving eastward and that air quality is improving slightly. Forecasts also call for potential rainfall in parts of the country this weekend, which could help clear lingering dust and lower pollution levels.