After the dramatic evacuation: Ministry of Health issues new directive for Haifa beaches

Good news for bathers in Haifa: The Ministry of Health announced that the swimming warning issued for several beaches in the city has been lifted following repeated seawater quality tests. The decision comes after the ministry instructed the public at the beginning of the week to avoid entering the sea at Haifa's beaches due to abnormal sampling results that raised concerns about water safety.

In a new announcement, the Ministry of Health confirmed that swimming is now permitted at the Dado, Zamir, Hof Carmel, Hof HaStudentim, and Hof HaShaket beaches. These sites are returning to normal operation, as follow-up tests indicated that the water quality has returned to acceptable levels.

However, the warning remains in effect for two of the city's beaches. The Ministry of Health clarified that abnormal microbiological results were still recorded at Bat Galim beach and Kiryat Haim beach; therefore, the public is requested to refrain from entering the water in these areas until further notice.

The current warning follows an unusual event earlier this week when the Ministry of Health instructed the public to evacuate Haifa's beaches. This was prompted by irregular sampling results, the causes of which were initially unclear.

Following additional testing, a decision was made to restore swimming access at most locations. The Ministry of Health emphasizes that even when a warning is lifted, swimming is permitted only at declared beaches where lifeguard services are available.

The public is advised to continue monitoring the Ministry of Health's instructions, particularly regarding the Bat Galim and Kiryat Haim beaches, where the swimming ban remains in effect. The ministry is expected to continue monitoring water quality and will publish updates as findings become available.