Winter is Here to Stay: Another Stormy Day in Israel

Israel is heading into the peak of winter conditions, with stormy weather sweeping the country on Monday and raising concerns over flooding and flash floods in multiple regions.

Rain is expected throughout the day from northern Israel down to the Negev, accompanied by isolated thunderstorms, particularly in the north and center. Strong westerly winds are forecast across much of the country, adding to already difficult conditions. In the coastal plain and the Shfela, authorities are warning of localized flooding, while flash floods are possible in eastern wadis. Snow is falling on Mount Hermon, marking another wintry day at Israel’s highest elevations.

As the day progresses, rainfall is expected to ease somewhat toward the evening hours, though conditions will remain unsettled. Overnight, skies will be partly to mostly cloudy, with a chance of light, scattered rain in many areas.

The unstable weather follows recent flooding incidents in several cities, including Netanya and Yavne, where heavy rain overwhelmed drainage systems earlier this month. Emergency services are urging the public to remain cautious, avoid flooded roads, and stay away from streambeds, particularly in the east and south, where water levels can rise rapidly with little warning.

Looking ahead, Tuesday is expected to bring a brief lull. Skies will be partly cloudy, with the possibility of drizzle or light rain in northern and central Israel. Temperatures are forecast to remain close to seasonal averages.

Conditions will begin to shift again on Wednesday. While the day itself is expected to be partly cloudy, light rain is possible in the north, and brisk winds will be felt along the coastal plain. Temperatures are expected to rise slightly in central and southern regions. However, this relative calm will be short-lived. Rain is forecast to intensify overnight Wednesday, spreading southward into central Israel.

Thursday is shaping up to be another significant winter weather event. Widespread rain is expected from the north through the central regions and into the northern Negev, with isolated thunderstorms possible. Winds will strengthen, and temperatures are expected to dip slightly. Authorities are again warning of a heightened risk of flooding along the coast and in the Shfela, as well as flash floods in eastern riverbeds.

Meteorologists stress that while winter storms are typical for this time of year, the intensity and frequency of recent systems demand caution. Drivers are advised to stay updated on road closures, and hikers are strongly warned to avoid desert areas and wadis during the coming days.