The winter storm is gaining in intensity throughout the country in line with meteorological forecasts. Wind gusts reaching 80KPH (48 MPH) are pounding cities in the north and center, with trees being knocked down in many areas.

Downed trees are reported as well, including in the north of the country, Petach Tikvah, Ramat HaSharon, Kfar Chabad, and Netanya — resulting in power outages in some of the areas as well as damage to vehicles. A 70-year-old man was injured by flying glass in Netanya.

It is snowing in the northern Golan Heights and the storm is expected to intensify until reaching its maximum strength on erev Shabbos.

Farmers in the Sharon region report the nylon coverings of their strawberry crops have been blown away resulting in the destruction of the crop.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)