"Potentially hundreds of thousands of people may go without electricity and heat for days," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter stated. Roadways in regions unaccustomed to winter weather, from the Mississippi Valley to Oklahoma, may become clogged due to heavy sleet and snow. AccuWeather noted that schools and childcare facilities could face multi-day closures. In areas prone to heavy icing, the collapse of trees and power lines may overwhelm utility crews and complicate clearing operations on streets and highways.

Large portions of Texas, Oklahoma, and populated centers in the Southeast and mid-Atlantic may see roads rendered impassable, the outlet reported. Following the precipitation, temperatures are projected to plummet into the 20s, teens, and single digits, increasing the likelihood of burst pipes and structural damage.

Forecasters expect Dallas to endure freezing conditions for up to 60 hours. "It does not appear this cold wave will be as long-lasting or as intense as the historic and deadly February 2021 cold outbreak," Porter observed. "However, this cold wave will coincide with a major snow and ice storm."

"More than 4,000 flight cancellations are likely across the country this weekend," Porter added. AccuWeather warned that significant ice buildup could force extended airport closures.

An injection of arctic air – potentially the coldest of the season – will define the rain-snow line. AccuWeather indicated that the storm's prolonged nature could result in precipitation lasting beyond 24 hours in some districts. Southern regions may face their most severe winter event in years, while the Northeast could see its largest storm of the season.

Plowable snow is expected to track from the southern Plains through the Midwest to New England. Major hubs like Atlanta, Washington, DC, and New York City lie in the storm's path. AccuWeather predicted accumulations could exceed a foot in colder zones, with the Appalachians seeing up to two feet.

Motorists and flyers should check forecasts to avoid becoming stranded as the system expands, the outlet advised. Thunderstorms may also develop along the Gulf Coast.

Freezing conditions will likely persist across the eastern US after the system departs. "Even after snow and ice subsides across the Southeast, some locations will be slow to rise above freezing," AccuWeather Meteorologist Emma Belscher explained. "This will prolong impacts as snow and ice will not be quick to melt and can easily refreeze overnight."

Temperatures remaining in the single digits and 10s across the Midwest and Northeast into next week could complicate snow removal and raise the risk of hypothermia, AccuWeather concluded.

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Heavy precipitation lashed the region overnight Monday and into the early morning hours, particularly in the Judean Hills (central Israel), the Judean Lowlands, and the northern Golan Heights (a strategic plateau in the north). As of Tuesday morning, the monitoring station at Latrun (between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem) topped the charts with 2.6 inches of rain, while Jerusalem and Nachshon (a kibbutz in central Israel) both recorded 2.5 inches. In Tzova (west of Jerusalem), gauges also showed 2.5 inches. Further north in Majdal Shams (a Druze town in the northern Golan), 2.3 inches fell, accompanied by light snow during the evening.

Video: Snow south of Jerusalem on January 13, 2026 / Credit: Usage under Israel's article 27a of the intellectual property law

Emergency teams have been operating across the country to rescue stranded citizens. Five people were pulled from a submerged vehicle on Pecker Street in Kiryat Malachi (a city in southern Israel) after a shuttle van became trapped in deep floodwaters. Fire and rescue teams from the local station responded rapidly, extracting the five passengers unharmed and moving them to safety. In a separate incident near Modi'in, firefighters and special rescue units worked to save three individuals stranded on the roof of their vehicle inside Nahal Anava (a stream near Modi'in), caught in a sudden flash flood with powerful currents.

Video: The Beit Zayit dam overflows / Israel Fire and Rescue Services

The storm also resulted in serious injuries. A 50-year-old woman is in critical condition after being struck by a heavy object in a flooded home. She was transported to meet Magen David Adom teams at the Shuafat checkpoint (in east Jerusalem) and was evacuated to Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital suffering from bodily trauma.

Video: Flooding in the tunnel near Ma'aleh Adumim / Credit: Usage under Israel's intellectual property law's Article 27a

The severe weather wreaked havoc on transportation infrastructure. The tunnels on the road to Ma'ale Adumim (a city east of Jerusalem) have flooded, and Route 1 was blocked east of the Olive Interchange tunnel. Route 90 was blocked in both directions at Nahal Arugot (in the Judean Desert), Nahal Tze'elim, and from the Lido Junction to the entrance of Ein Bokek (a hotel district on the Dead Sea). Additionally, Route 463 was closed to traffic in both directions between the Doar Junction in western Benjamin (the West Bank) and the settlement of Na'ale.

Video: Hail falls near Haifa in northern Israel / Credit: Nethanel Isaac

Freezing temperatures brought a rare dusting of snow to the central region, with light accumulation reported on the western peaks of Gush Etzion (a settlement bloc south of Jerusalem) in the communities of Neve Daniel and Elazar. In the north, heavy snow blanketed Mount Hermon (Israel's highest peak) and the northern Golan Heights at both the upper and lower cable car levels, and the snowfall is expected to continue through the morning.

High-intensity rains are expected to persist in the coming hours, focusing on the central mountain range and the Judean Lowlands. Flash floods have already commenced in the Dead Sea streams – notably Nahal Arugot – and are projected to continue. While the wind intensity has peaked, the severe storm will continue to pound Israel throughout the morning with gusts liable to hit 75 miles per hour. Intermittent showers accompanied by thunderstorms are forecast from the north down to the northern Negev.

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The Meteorological Service said a significant rain system, along the windstorm, will begin entering northern Israel on Monday evening and gradually spread to the rest of the country.

In a statement released by the service's director, Dr. Amir Givati, he said that "strong and unusual winds will affect Israel from the evening hours, through the night and during the first half of Tuesday." He added that the most powerful winds are expected along the coastal plain, where gusts may reach up to 110 kilometers per hour.

The red alert applies to wide areas, including the Mediterranean Sea, the northern mountains, the Carmel range, the northern, central and southern coastal plain, the central highlands, northern Samaria, northeastern Negev and the Negev Mountains.

The warning is in effect from 10 p.m. Monday until 6 p.m. Tuesday local time. During this period, westerly winds of around 50 kilometers per hour, about 31 mph, are expected with exceptionally strong gusts.

Another major concern is sea conditions. The Meteorological Service has also issued a red warning for dangerously stormy seas and a complete ban on swimming in the Mediterranean. This warning will be in effect from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning. Sea conditions are expected to range from high to stormy, with significant wave heights of between 2.5 and 6 meters, about 8 to 20 feet.

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Storm damage was also recorded at multiple locations. In Ashkelon, Herzliya, Rishon LeZion, and Tel Aviv, trees collapsed, resulting in two men being moderately injured and evacuated to hospitals. A tree also collapsed in Bnei Brak. Meanwhile, Route 90 was blocked to vehicle traffic from Dargot Junction to the Dead Sea hotels due to flooding and serious safety concerns for road users.

Aviation was also affected by the weather. Arkia flight IZ212 from Athens to Tel Aviv was diverted to Larnaca due to stormy weather in Israel. The aircraft will land in Larnaca for refueling before continuing its journey back to Ben Gurion International Airport.

According to the forecast, the current rain system will begin to subside in the evening hours after Shabbat begins. Until then, very strong winds are expected to reach their peak toward evening, with wind gusts of 100 to 115 kilometers per hour (62-71 miles per hour) along the coast and in the lowlands, and approximately 90 to 100 kilometers per hour (56-62 miles per hour) in the mountains.

The following is a breakdown of wind speeds: Hadera Port 105 kilometers per hour (65 miles per hour), Tel Aviv 97 kilometers per hour (60 miles per hour), Safed 97 kilometers per hour (60 miles per hour), Ashdod 96 kilometers per hour (60 miles per hour).

Rain began falling across northern Israel on Thursday and continued into Friday, then spread southward to the central regions. The precipitation will persist after Shabbat begins but will steadily diminish. As Shabbat draws to a close, rainfall will intensify once more, delivering substantial precipitation overnight. The rain will taper off by morning, with Sunday bringing a temporary lull before another system arrives Monday.

Wind conditions warrant close attention, as standard velocities across the coastal plain and lowlands will crest at 60 km/h (37 mph). Mountain zones will experience fiercer gusts, peaking at 70 km/h (43 mph) with potential bursts reaching 100 km/h (62 mph).

Friday will bring sporadic rainfall punctuated by isolated thunderstorms from northern Israel down to the northern Negev. Powerful gusts will sweep through, rendering the sea treacherous for swimmers and even vessels. Flash flooding threatens the wadis of the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea. Temperatures will plunge noticeably yet remain seasonally appropriate. Evening and overnight hours (Friday into Saturday) will see precipitation weakening and gradually subsiding.

Saturday will deliver partial to substantial cloud cover. Throughout the day, scattered light showers may still affect northern and central Israel. Temperatures will hold at seasonal norms. As evening approaches, rainfall is forecast to strengthen anew, especially across northern Israel and the coastal plain.

Sunday will transition to partly cloudy or clear skies. Morning hours may still produce scattered light showers in northern Israel and along the coast. A slight temperature increase is anticipated.

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Malfunctioning traffic lights due to rain in Bnei Brak 

Following the rains, traffic lights at the intersection of Jabotinsky, Abuhatzeira, and Sokolov streets in Bnei Brak malfunctioned. Traffic congestion has formed at the location. Police recommend drivers use alternative routes. Police forces are on scene directing traffic.

Trees collapse in Acre following storm

Following the severe weather, trees have collapsed at several locations throughout Acre. Acre municipality crews are on the ground working to address the incident.

Water Authority reports Sea of Galilee level rose 2 centimeters in 24 hours

According to Water Authority measurements today, following the recent rainfall, the Sea of Galilee level has risen 2 centimeters (0.8 inches) in the past 24 hours and stands at -213.395 meters (-700 feet). The level remains 0.395 meters (1.3 feet) below the lower red line, and 4.595 meters (15.1 feet) remain to reach the upper red line.

Route 4 closed to traffic due to flooding

The second storm system that hit Israel this morning has led to flooding across the country. The Israel Police has updated that as of now, Route 4 has been closed to traffic. Police will provide updates on developments.

Second rainfall wave intensifies, Israel Meteorological Service issues red rainfall warning

Heavy rain fell at times today, accompanied by thunderstorms in the north and center of the country. Strong westerly winds have been blowing, especially across most of the country. Rain will spread throughout the day to the Negev. Flooding is feared in the coastal plain and lowlands. Flash flooding is feared in eastern streams.

Starting tonight and through Wednesday, rainfall will pause. The trend will change on Wednesday night, when another rainfall wave will pass over the country on Thursday. This rainfall wave will end by Friday. No rain is expected over the weekend; however, it will be extremely cold.

Flood danger feared

Today (Monday), rain fell at times, accompanied by thunderstorms in the north and center of the country. Strong westerly winds blew, especially in most parts of the country. Rain will spread throughout the day to the Negev. Flooding is feared in the coastal plain and lowlands. Flash flooding is feared in eastern streams. Snow fell on Mount Hermon ridges. Toward evening, the rain will weaken and decrease. Tonight is expected to be partly cloudy to cloudy. Local rain is possible, with drizzle in most parts of the country.

Earlier, authorities warned of severe flooding in cities and towns, along with a real danger of flash floods in major streams, including Nahal Hadera, Nahal Alexander, Poleg, the Yarkon River, the Ayalon River, and Nahal Sorek. Dozens of millimeters of rain are expected to fall within a few hours, an amount that could cause significant disruptions to road traffic.

Winds reaching speeds of 100 km/h

Alongside heavy rainfall, strong winds are expected, reaching 90-100 km/h (56-62 mph) along the coastal plain and 80-90 km/h (50-56 mph) in mountain areas. These winds could cause damage to property and infrastructure, including trees, power and communication lines, antennas, sheds, and unsecured objects. It is recommended to prepare in advance, secure objects on balconies, and avoid unnecessary risks. Haze is possible in southern Israel due to the winds.

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Rain is expected to resume as early as Saturday morning, with precipitation forecast for northern and central parts of the country. At the same time, the gradual drop in temperatures that began on Friday is expected to continue.

A marked escalation is forecast for Sunday. The first half of the day is expected to be very rainy, with intense downpours, isolated thunderstorms and a heightened risk of flooding in the central and southern coastal areas, the central highlands, Samaria and the Jerusalem hills. Flash floods are also expected in the Judean Desert, along Dead Sea wadis and as far south as the northern Negev.

Rainfall focus on central and southern Israel

According to meteorological models, the heaviest rainfall totals are expected in central Israel, including the coastal plain, the central highlands, Gush Etzion and the Hebron area, as well as parts of the Jordan Valley.

In cities such as Ashdod and Yavne, some scenarios predict unusually high cumulative rainfall of about 100 to 150 millimeters (roughly 4 to 6 inches). Similar amounts may be recorded along the central coast, the central lowlands and the central highlands, significantly increasing concerns about serious flooding.

By contrast, rainfall totals in northern Israel are expected to be lower at this stage. In the area between Netanya and Atlit and in inland parts of the north, forecasts point to about 30 to 60 millimeters (around 1 to 2.5 inches). Similar amounts are expected in Tiberias, the Golan Heights and the Kokhav HaYarden area.

In Haifa and the Carmel Ridge, forecasts are even lower, at just 10 to 30 millimeters (less than 1.2 inches). However, heavier rainfall of about 80 to 100 millimeters (3 to 4 inches) may accumulate in the Upper Galilee and around Nahariya. Forecasters note that additional rain systems are expected early next week, at least through Tuesday, which could improve overall rainfall totals in the north.

Forecast for the coming days

Wednesday: Partly cloudy to clear. The Mediterranean Sea will be calm to slightly choppy. The Sea of Galilee and the Red Sea will be calm.

Thursday: Partly cloudy to clear, with no significant change in temperatures. Strong easterly winds are expected in the northern mountains and Samaria during the morning.

Friday: Partly cloudy with a slight drop in temperatures. Light drizzle to localized light rain is possible in the north and along the coastal plain.

Saturday: Intermittent rain in the north and central regions, with a chance of isolated thunderstorms. Local rain is possible in the northern Negev. Temperatures will drop slightly again, mainly in the mountains and inland areas.

Monday and Tuesday are expected to be very cold, and the rain, as noted, may continue.

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The rains are expected to continue on Thursday. By the afternoon – and particularly tomorrow – precipitation will intensify significantly, bringing a high risk of flooding. Localized rainfall is possible in the southern Negev. There is a serious concern regarding flash floods in the streams of the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea, and the northern Arava. A severe flood warning is in effect for the coastal plain and the Shfela (lowlands). Winds will be brisk, and temperatures will dip below the seasonal average.

Video: Storm Byron in Israel / Credit: Omri Zinger, Moshe Ben Simchon

Minute by minute – all the updates

1:40 p.m. | A tree collapsed in the courtyard of an educational institution in Rishon LeZion. Magen David Adom teams provided medical treatment and evacuated two approximately 10-year-old girls in mild condition with head injuries to Shamir-Assaf Harofeh Hospital.

1:30 p.m. | Magen David Adom teams were dispatched in the last half hour to several locations in the Shfela (lowlands), where vehicles became trapped in floodwaters. Rescue units are currently assisting with extraction efforts and stand ready to provide medical treatment if required.

Video: Yavne floods on Dec. 11, 2025 / Credit: Usage under Article 27a of Israel's intellectual property law

1:22 p.m. | Floodwaters have inundated King George Street in Tel Aviv.

1:15 p.m. | Footage from the Gaza Strip shows the collapse of a four-story building in the al-Nasr neighborhood of western Gaza City.

12:20 p.m. | Intense rainfall has lashed the Shfela (lowlands) in recent hours, with flooding recorded in cities including Rehovot. Rishon LeZion recorded 40 millimeters (1.6 inches) of rain in just three hours. Heavy rains persist along the northern coast, raising concerns of flooding near Zichron Yaakov. These heavy rains will continue along the coastal plain – specifically the southern coast and the lowlands – before spreading inland. Flash floods are expected in the Dead Sea streams throughout the day.

Video: Gaza building collapses during Storm Byron / Dec. 11, 2025

11:50 a.m. | Heavy fog has been reported in Daliyat al-Karmel.

10:50 a.m. | Interim Summary – High daily rainfall totals were measured this morning, primarily in the Carmel and Carmel Coast regions. Because this area also received significant precipitation at the start of the current system, cumulative totals there are far higher than in the rest of the country.

In the Nahal Me'arot Nature Reserve, 205 millimeters (8 inches) have accumulated since Saturday, with 94 millimeters (3.7 inches) falling in the last 24 hours alone. Atlit recorded 193 millimeters (7.6 inches) over the past three days, including 93 millimeters (3.7 inches) in the last day. Storm-level totals of 130-150 millimeters (5.1-5.9 inches) were recorded in Haifa and the Carmel, while the coastal plain north of Haifa and the northern Sharon region saw 100-120 millimeters (3.9-4.7 inches).

Video: Tel Aviv flooding on King George Street / Credit: Adi Nirman

Additionally, highly developed cloud formations moved over the area in the last 24 hours, bringing reports of hail. Today, the weather map will finally balance out as northwesterly winds drive the main rain clouds toward the center and south of the country.

Rainfall in central and southern Israel is expected to intensify. Within less than 24 hours, accumulations of 50-100 millimeters (2-4 inches) – and locally even more – are possible in the central and southern coastal plain. Heavy rain is also forecast for the central mountains, with a high probability of flash floods in the Judean Desert and northern Negev.

10:15 a.m. | Flooding and rain from Storm Byron reported in Gaza – civilians were seen attempting to navigate flooded roads.

9:30 a.m. | A 53-year-old man was found lifeless in Netanya with signs of hypothermia following the cold weather.

8:30 a.m. | Rainfall records for the last 48 hours according to the Israel Meteorological Service: Ein Carmel 165 millimeters (6.5 inches), Haifa Technion 139.7 millimeters (5.5 inches), Zichron Ya'akov 112.6 millimeters (4.4 inches), Shavei Zion 104.8 millimeters (4.1 inches), Nahariya 99.9 millimeters (3.9 inches).

7:57 a.m. | The Haifa and Carmel areas are leading the accumulated precipitation amounts over the last two days with 160–170 millimeters (6.3–6.7 inches), and 70 millimeters (2.8 inches) in the last 12 hours.

From the afternoon hours, the rains will enter the central and southern coast with strong rainfall intensity and dozens of millimeters of accumulation. The heavy rains will continue until the evening hours at least.

5:45 a.m. | Starting this morning (Thursday), temperatures will drop below the seasonal average. Rain accompanied by thunderstorms will fall intermittently from northern Israel to the northern Negev, with light rain possible in the southern Negev. Furthermore, there is a risk of flash floods in the Judean Desert, Dead Sea, and northern Arava streams, and a severe risk of urban flooding along the Coastal Plain and in the Shfela (Lowlands). Strong wind gusts are likely.

11:08 p.m. | Municipalities across the country have raised their alert level to "full storm protocol" in anticipation of the weather system. Operational units specializing in drainage, infrastructure, enforcement, and security have been reinforced and placed on standby to handle flooding, road blockages, and debris removal. Pumping crews and heavy engineering equipment have been deployed, underground passage systems inspected, and municipal call centers are operating on an emergency footing. The public is urged to avoid crossing flooded roads on foot or by vehicle, to secure loose objects susceptible to strong winds, and to avoid entering basements or underground parking garages during flood events.

10:24 p.m. | Update from Netivei Israel (National Transport Infrastructure Company): Road 40 has been closed to traffic in both directions from Tzihor Junction to the entrance of Mitzpe Ramon due to flooding.

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Cyprus has ramped up the hunt on Wednesday for the Israeli yacht that set sail from Ashdod two days ago and vanished on its way to the island. Contact was severed two days ago near Paphos.

The Greek Coast Guard announced that as the weather improves, Greek Navy planes and helicopters will join the afternoon search for the missing Israeli yacht, sweeping the waters between Cyprus and Crete. At the same time, Cypriot officials indicated that wind patterns suggest the yacht may have drifted south toward Egypt's coastline, prompting searches in that direction as well. The official noted that Wednesday's search will stretch toward Israel, suggesting the skipper may have turned back due to worsening conditions.

The missing passengers include three friends from Kafr Shibli Umm al-Ghanem in northern Israel (an Arab village in the Galilee), while the fourth person, according to the yacht company, lives in the Krayot (the cluster of towns north of Haifa).

The yacht vanished roughly 90 nautical miles (167 kilometers) off Paphos on the island's southern coast. Cyprus has triggered the Nearchos protocol, redirecting passing vessels to the yacht's projected path to aid the search. The operation involves Cypriot ships and helicopters from British military installations on the island.

Cyprus port authorities described the yacht's skipper, a 41-year-old Israeli, as highly experienced with multiple prior visits to the island. A port official told local journalists he was baffled that Israeli authorities cleared the vessel to sail in such brutal weather. "During Storm Byron, we halted nearly all departures of small craft from the island," the official said.

Israel's Foreign Ministry confirmed that "Israeli, Greek, and Cypriot forces are coordinating search operations. The ministry's Division for Israelis Abroad and embassies in Cyprus and Greece remain in constant contact with the families, working nonstop on the situation."

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From yesterday through this morning, approximately 60-70 millimeters (2.4-2.8 inches) have fallen in the Zikhron Yaakov, Haifa, and Carmel region. Zikhron Yaakov leads the national rainfall table with 77 millimeters (3 inches) so far. Ein Carmel has recorded 68 millimeters (2.7 inches) and Haifa 60 millimeters (2.4 inches). In Zikhron Yaakov, a shuttle carrying children became stuck in an underpass. All were rescued without injury.

During the night, the rains advanced to central Israel and concentrated in Gush Dan (the greater Tel Aviv metropolitan area). About 35-40 millimeters (1.4-1.6 inches) have fallen in Tel Aviv so far, and about 15 millimeters (0.6 inches) in Ashdod. Jerusalem has recorded 10.8 millimeters (0.4 inches), Safed 15.3 millimeters (0.6 inches), Beersheba 3.6 millimeters (0.1 inches), and Sodom 0 millimeters.

Rain will continue today, intensifying in the afternoon and especially on Thursday, with flooding forecast.

In the southern Negev, there may be local rain. There is concern about flash floods in the wadis of the Judea Desert, the Dead Sea, and northern Arava. There is serious concern about flooding along the coastal plain and in the Shfela. Strong winds will blow. Temperatures will be lower than normal for the season. Snow will fall on the summit of Mount Hermon.

Stay nourished, seal the house, and visit the elderly: Health Ministry instructions

The Health Ministry has published preparedness instructions for the health system for the stormy weather. Hospitals and health funds have been instructed to prepare in order to continue providing medical services as required. Additionally, the ministry is calling on elderly populations, as well as parents of infants and young children, to prepare accordingly and take several important actions to avoid health damage.

• While staying at home: Maintain activity and movement to increase blood flow and body heat.
• Heating: Heat the home at a constant temperature of approximately 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit), not lower than 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit), and ensure air humidity in the room to avoid dry air.
• Properly seal home openings (windows, doors, etc.).
• Drinking: In sufficient quantity (8-10 glasses of beverages per day, unless there is an explicit medical restriction). Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
• Meals: Maintain relatively light meals at frequent intervals (5-6 per day) and avoid heavy meals. Hot beverages and food help maintain body heat.

Cases in which to consult with the treating physician: Taking medications that may increase sensitivity to cold (medications that affect alertness such as sleeping pills, antidepressants, certain pain medications, etc.), as well as health conditions that may increase risk from cold (heart disease where cold creates overload on heart function, lung disease, in people with cognitive decline/dementia who have difficulty caring for themselves, etc.).

Elderly people living alone: Maintain contact and ensure home visits by family members, friends, neighbors, or volunteers - at least once a day. To identify hypothermia in an elderly person, check if the home is cold and the elderly person is less active than usual.

It should be noted that in the initial stages of hypothermia - there may be difficulty identifying the problem: a person suffering from cold may not shiver and may not complain of feeling cold, and temperature measurement with a home thermometer may not identify the problem - since it is designed to measure fever.

If there is suspicion of hypothermia, based on cold skin contact, change in skin color, decreased alertness, confused state, changes in breathing, etc. - medical help should be summoned immediately.

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Video: Flooding in southern Israel / Eilot Regional Council

The storm will strengthen gradually. Rains that began overnight will intensify in the north and reach the central region by Tuesday night. On Wednesday, high-intensity rainfall is expected, raising serious concerns for flooding along the coast and in the Shefela (lowlands).

The system will peak between Wednesday night and Thursday, delivering tens of millimeters of rain within hours. The forecast warns of gale-force winds reaching 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph), urban flooding, disruptions to daily life, and flash floods in the streams of the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea area. Rain will persist into Friday, focusing primarily on central Israel.

Officials at the Israel Meteorological Service emphasize that "Byron" is expected to bring "abnormal" precipitation levels and exceeding 200 millimeters (nearly 8 inches) in areas of the northern coast, Gush Dan (Tel Aviv metropolitan area), and the southern coast. These figures surpass the average rainfall for the entire month of December.

The extended forecast

On Tuesday, skies will be partly cloudy to cloudy. Local showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected along the coastal plain, particularly in the north. Local rain is possible in the mountains during the afternoon. Temperatures will remain average for the season, but the Mediterranean Sea will see high waves and is considered very dangerous for swimming.

On Wednesday, showers accompanied by thunderstorms will sweep through northern and central Israel. There is a severe risk of flooding in the coastal plain and the Shefela (lowlands). Brisk winds will blow, primarily along the coast and in the mountains. Rain will gradually spread to the Negev, creating a risk of flash floods in the Judean Desert streams and the Dead Sea area.

On Thursday, rain accompanied by isolated thunderstorms will fall from the north to the northern Negev. Local rain is possible in the southern Negev. Flash flood warnings remain in effect for the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea, and the northern Arava (desert valley). Flooding risks persist for the coastal plain and the Shefela (lowlands). Brisk winds will continue, and temperatures will drop below the seasonal average.

On Friday, the weather will remain cloudy to partly cloudy. Local rains will continue from the north to the northern Negev, with isolated thunderstorms possible until noon. Local flooding risks remain for the coastal plain, as well as flash flood warnings for the Judean Desert and Dead Sea streams. Temperatures will rise slightly but will remain unseasonably cool, particularly in the mountains and inland area

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