Temperatures around Israel began dropping significantly on motzei Shabbos, bringing an end to over a week of spring-like weather. The temperature in Yerushalayim on Wednesday morning 22 Shevat was 9C (49F) accompanied by strong winds and blinding sand conditions.

The sand storms began on Tuesday afternoon, bringing the brownish film from Egypt and spreading to many areas of the country. The Health Ministry on Tuesday issued an air quality advisory, suggesting to persons with chronic cardiac and pulmonary illnesses to remain indoors if at all possible. The sand in the air is quite visible on Wednesday morning in Jerusalem as a film of dirt covers vehicles and buildings.

The rains are expected to begin at some point on Wednesday. Forecasters report a 20% chance of rain in capital on Wednesday, which is expected to increase to 50% by evening. The rains will begin in the north and travel southward.

At present, Arkia Airlines has announced all domestic flights are cancelled until 14:00 due to the wind and sand conditions. The Eilat Airport is closed, as is S’dei Dov. Persons flying domestically are advised to check with the airline before leaving home.

Ben-Gurion International Airport officials advise travelers to expect delays in incoming and outgoing flights primarily due to strong wind gusts in the airport area. Police and other agencies are preparing for the likelihood of flooding in low-lying areas. Israel Electric Company is preparing for outages that may result from downed trees.

Thursday is expected to be a bit colder and the winds will continue, but the chances of rainfall are down to 10%. The chance of rain in the capital on Friday is reportedly 20%, and the same holds true for Friday, but temperatures will be significantly colder, in the 30sF. Shabbos is expected to be warmer, in the low 50sF, with humidity at 72% but the prediction for rain unfortunately remains only at 20%.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)