Israel, PT: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions through at least Dec. 18

Event

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, snowfall, and possible coastal flooding are forecast across northern and central Israel and the West Bank through at least Dec. 18. Rainfall will bring a slight chance of flooding to the Judean Desert and Dead Sea areas Dec. 17 and snowfall is expected on Mount Hermon. Further rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is expected late Dec. 17, especially in northern areas and along the coast. Further rain is forecast early Dec. 18, before conditions begin to ease.

As of Dec. 17, the Israel Meteorological Service has issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Orange high sea swimming danger warning (the second-highest on a four-tier scale): Across the entire coastline.

• Yellow flash floods warning: Judean Desert and Dead Sea areas.

• Yellow thunderstorm warning: Meditteranean Sea, Western Upper Galilee, Carmel, Judean Foothills, and North, Central, and South Coast areas.

• Yellow mountain obscuration (poor visibility) warning: Northern and central mountain regions.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Thunderstorms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Israel Meteorological Service