Israelis have been instructed to prepared for a stormy Thursday night/Friday as heavy rains and snow are predicted.

Winds are expected to pick up Thursday afternoon towards evening and skies will become hazy. Towards evening, heavy rainfall will begin in northern Israel and continue to the northern Negev. The storm will continue throughout the night around the country, including isolated thundershowers, and hail. Wind gusts are expected to reach 100KPH (60 MPH).

Snow accumulations expected in areas over 800 meters, while snow that does not stick is also likely in areas only 700 meters altitude. Conditions being what they are, snow is not likely in Jerusalem according to forecasters.

Friday morning is expected to be stormy throughout the country with continued snowfall on Mt. Hermon and the Golan areas. Flood warnings are in effect for low-lying areas. The storm will dissipate significantly on Friday afternoon and the rainfall is expected to stop close to or before candle lighting.

Shabbos is expected to be a bit warmer, as is the case for Sunday.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)