In 2023, the compensation provided to Israeli farmers for damages caused by extreme weather conditions saw a 13% increase from the previous year, as reported by Kanat, an insurer for the agricultural sector against nature-induced losses. Kanat stated that farmers would receive approximately NIS 390 million ($105 million), marking the second highest payout in 15 years, with 2015 being the worst year with claims around NIS 521 million ($140 million).

According to the EU climate monitoring service, 2023 was the warmest year ever recorded globally. Kanat's report highlighted the increasing impact of weather-related damage on crops worldwide, with a more pronounced effect in Israel, where the rate of global warming is twice the global average.

Kanat received over 12,200 reports of weather-related crop damage in 2023, an increase from approximately 11,000 in 2022. These reports were largely due to extreme heat, hailstorms, heavy rain, and weather-induced diseases. The insurer noted that global warming has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events.

Fruit farmers, especially those growing nectarines, apples, and peaches, suffered the most damage and are set to receive around NIS 130 million ($35 million) in compensation. Other crop farmers, including those growing tomatoes, cucumbers, and watermelons, will receive NIS 79 million ($21 million).

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com