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Ichud (United) Hatzalah officials report on Tuesday, 15 Teves that they are completing final preparations for the first winter storm that is expected to blanket Jerusalem with snow between Wednesday night and Thursday.

Directors of the nationwide volunteer organization are in contact with Israel Police with an emphasis on certain units including traffic. Officials are also in contact with the Health Ministry and other agencies. The organization has dubbed this Operation “White Carpet”.

Ichud officials call on the public to remain in contact with state and emergency agencies and to abide with instructions. CEO Ze’ev Kashash reports physicians, paramedics and EMTs are equipped with storm turnout bags that include specialized thermal blankets to treat hypothermia. All four-wheeled drive vehicles remain on call in different areas, including the capital, Tzfas, and throughout areas of Yehuda and Shomron.

Chief of volunteers Shraga Hoffman adds that the organization is adding dispatchers and all volunteers are well-stocked to respond to calls for assistance. He adds ATVs and other 4-wheeled drive vehicle will replace their ambucycles in area with snow accumulations.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)