Israel, Lebanon, Syria: Adverse weather forecast across Lebanon, parts of northern Israel, and northwestern Syria through at least Jan. 27

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Lebanon, northern Israel, and northwestern coastal areas of Syria through at least Jan. 27. The Lebanon Meteorological Service has warned that a depression will move over the region from southwestern Turkiye Jan. 23-25, bringing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, cold temperatures, strong winds, and snowfall in elevated areas over the coming days. Conditions will briefly ease overnight Jan. 25-26 before another storm system named Daniella moves into the region early Jan. 26. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas due to rising river levels. Strong winds will also likely generate rough seas along the Mediterranean coastline.

As of Jan. 23, the Lebanon Meteorological Service has forecast scattered rainfall, thunderstorms, dropping temperatures, and snowfall over higher ground across much of the country through Jan. 25. Heavier rainfall and stronger winds, as well as further thunderstorms and snowfall in mountainous regions, are expected from Jan. 26 due to the arrival of Storm Daniella. The Israel Meteorological Service has forecast scattered showers over northern and central regions and snowfall over Mount Hermon Jan. 23-25. Rainy and stormy conditions are expected across northern Israel Jan. 26-27; strong winds, dropping temperatures, and snowfall over elevated areas are also expected during the passing of the storm system.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Mediterranean coastline if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.