“Extremely Rare Event”: Miles-Long Microalgae Bloom Disrupts Israel’s Desalination Plants

An extremely rare microalgae bloom has disrupted several of Israel’s desalination plants, temporarily reducing their output and intensifying concerns about water supplies. The phenomenon, described as miles-long, can occur when dense concentrations of algae spread across coastal waters and interfere with intake systems. Officials and researchers are assessing the bloom’s causes, environmental impact, and expected duration. The incident highlights the vulnerability of desalination infrastructure and the importance of maintaining backup sources during unusual marine events along Israel’s coastline and nearby.