Israel, PT: Adverse weather forecast across the region through at least Feb. 5

Event

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, snowfall at higher elevations, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across parts of Israel and the Palestinian Territories through at least Feb. 5. Dust storms are also possible in desert regions and rough seas are likely off coastal regions. A storm system is expected to pass over the region Feb. 1, bringing heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, and thunderstorm activity, as well as snowfall over Mount Hermon. The heaviest rainfall is expected in northern and central coastal areas of Israel; however, flash flooding is also possible in mountainous and desert parts of the region due to the nature of the terrain. Conditions are expected to briefly improve Feb. 2 before further adverse weather conditions return from late Feb. 3 through Feb. 5.

As of Feb. 1, the Israel Meteorological Service has issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the second-highest on a four-tier scale): Across northern and central coastal parts of Israel and northern parts of the West Bank.

• Orange rough sea warnings: Across the entire Mediterranean coastline.

• Yellow flood warnings: Central and northern coastal areas of Israel and the Judean foothills.

• Yellow flash flood warnings: The Judean Desert and areas around the Dead Sea in southeast Israel and the West Bank.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across much of the affected area.

• Yellow mountain obscuration (poor visibility) warning: Northern and central mountain regions of Israel and the West Bank.

• Yellow reduced visibility warnings: Due to dust storms across southern Israel and for mist in parts of northern Israel.

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. Rain-induced landslides are possible in areas of elevated terrain.

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. 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 airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Mediterranean coast 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, 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