Stormy weather was expected on Wednesday as Israelis geared up for possible snow in northern and central Israel. Torrential rain and thunderstorms were expected to begin in northern Israel and then spread southward. Wind was also expected to pick up speed across the country.
Snow was expected on higher elevations, particularly in the Jerusalem area, the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights. As a precautionary measure, the Jerusalem Municipality said classes would end at 3 p.m. across the city.
As usual ahead of the first snow, excitement among Jerusalem residents was palpable on Wednesday.
A similar decision to end school early was made in Safed in the country's north. Operators of the Haifa Port also said they would not allow new ships to dock in the area until Thursday.
The Health Ministry called on Israelis to ensure those most vulnerable – babies, the elderly and homeless – were not left without proper heating and shelter.
