Severe Rainfall Expected to Linger in Central Israel After Brief Respite
Meteorological Alerts Updated for Intense Rainfall
The Israel Meteorological Servstart has issued updated warnings forecasting the return of heavy rain starting this afternoon, following a brief pause in precipitation. Rainfall is expected to last at least through the evening, with the most significant downpours occurring tonight. Since the onset of the current weather system named “Byron,” the coastal areas, particularly around Haifa, Zichron Yaakov, and Nahariya, have already experienced over 100 mm of rain.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast
According to the updated “red alert,” from early morning until 10 PM, exceptional rainfall amounts of 100 to 150 mm are anticipated in the central and southern coastal plains, as well as in the Shephelah region. In addition, an “orange alert” has been issued for potential flooding in these areas.
Regional Impacts
In the northwestern Negev and the Judean Desert, rainfall is expected to continue into the late evening hours, leading to potential flash floods and hazardous conditions. The Haifa region and the Carmel area have recorded the highest cumulative rainfall, with over 160 mm measured, including 70 mm in just the past 12 hours.
Rainfall Accumulation Statistics
Since midnight, the highest rainfall was recorded in Ein Carmel near Atlit, where 49 mm were measured. Since the beginning of the “Byron” weather system, Ein Carmel has received 165 mm, the highest of all weather stations. Nearby, the university in Haifa reported close to 140 mm, while Zichron Yaakov, Nahariya, and Shevi Tzion have also seen substantial precipitation exceeding 100 mm.
In the storm’s wake, Tel Aviv experienced less than 2 mm overnight, and Jerusalem remained completely dry. However, in the western Negev and southern coastal areas, significant rainfall was recorded, with 14 mm in Sderot and 11 mm at Ashkelon Port.
Predictions for the Coming Days
As we head into Friday, localized rainfall will persist from northern Israel to the northern Negev. Isolated thunderstorms may still occur until the afternoon, particularly in the central coastal plain and the Shephelah, increasing the risk of flash floods in the Judean Desert and along the Dead Sea. As the day progresses, the intensity of the rains is expected to diminish.
Temperatures will remain slightly below seasonal averages, predominantly in hilly areas and the interior. On Saturday, the weather will be partially cloudy to overcast. Scattered showers are possible in the north and center of the country, primarily light in nature, with a slight rise in temperature towards seasonal norms.
Additionally, the Israel Defense Forces announced an operational lockdown in military bases until Friday morning, restricting the release of servstart members from bases starting tonight until 6 AM Friday.
Emergency servstarts and residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed about weather updates and prepare for possible flooding conditions.