Israeli in many areas including Yerushalayim, Israeli awakened to an unseasonably cold Sunday morning, 13 Teves. The rainfall in the capital continued intermittently during the morning hours, as was the case in areas of the north and center. 15cm (6 inches) of snow accumulated on the upper slope of the Mt. Hermon ski lodge in the Golan Heights. Resort operators are optimistic that more significant accumulations will be seen this week towards permitting the season opening.

On Tuesday, 16 Teves, the temperatures will drop even more, accompanied by strong wind gusts, up to 100 KPH (60 MPH) in many areas. Stand storms are expected in some southern area and the rain will begin increasing in intensity towards the afternoon hours. Isolated thunder showers are expected and snowfall will continue on Mt. Hermon.

On Wednesday the intensity of the storm will increase in the north and center of the country. The rainfall will spread gradually from the north to the N. Negev, accompanied by strong wings. Flood warning will be in effect. Snowfall is expected to begin in the mountainous areas including Yerushalayim and Gush Etzion towards the afternoon/evening. No one is speaking about significant accumulations at this time but the storm is being monitored and cities including Jerusalem and Tzfas are preparing for a snowstorm after recalling last winter, when both cities were paralyzed by a storm.

Jerusalem officials report that ahead of winter many trees were pruned in public areas and officials are calling on residents to tie down lawn furniture or anything remaining outdoors ahead of the expected storm. Residents are warned to distance themselves from any downed power lines in a storm and to immediately call the power company.

Jerusalem City Hall continues updating residents via its website and smartphone app. Officials advise residents to stock up a bit on basic food essentials in the event the snow accumulations make getting outdoors a bit difficult. The same is true in Tzfas. Israel Electric Company has opened its situation in the capital as well.

Jerusalem City Hall Makes the Following Recommendations;

· Check condition of heating systems (particularly those that require ventilation) and prepare non-electric means of heating.

· Clean and open drainage pipes in yards and gutters.

· Cut back trees and branches in private gardens that are close to electric cables.

· Check safety of electrical systems and make sure you have emergency lighting and backup charge for cellphones.

· Have a shovel ready to clear building entrances if necessary.

· Reinforce antennas, solar boilers, sheds and other objects on roofs.

· Prepare a stock of basic foods and water for a few days.

Recommendations for extreme weather conditions and snow:

· Remove objects that are not secured and could fall from a height or be blown away (planters, garden furniture, signs).

· During snowstorms, avoid unnecessary trips outdoors, except in emergencies and as instructed.

· Avoid standing under shelters, pergolas, huts or temporary structures with more than 10cm of snow on top (danger of collapse).

· If there is a risk of freezing, allow the warm water tap to drip to prevent water freezing in the solar boiler pipes (freezing water causes pipes to crack).

· During snowstorm conditions, the Municipality will operate a special website which will be updated by the various emergency authorities. Residents should refer to this site and other media for information.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)