Weather is expected to be significantly warmer-than-usual temperatures today (Thursday), followed by widespread rain, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions beginning overnight, the Israel Meteorological Service said. Temperatures are expected to rise slightly and remain well above the seasonal average.
Rain is expected to begin late Thursday night into early Friday, initially in northern Israel and accompanied by isolated thunderstorms. The showers are forecast to spread quickly to central Israel and as far south as the northern Negev. Winds are expected to strengthen markedly, especially along the coastal plain.
On Friday, intermittent rain accompanied by isolated thunderstorms is forecast from northern Israel to the northern Negev. Strong winds are expected throughout the day, and the sea is expected to become dangerous for swimming and maritime traffic. Authorities have warned of a risk of flooding in streams in the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea region.
The meteorological service said winds on Friday could reach gusts of about 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph) along the coast. Sea conditions are expected to be especially severe between Haifa and Tel Aviv, with waves reaching heights of 6 to 6.5 meters (20 to 21 feet) and peak waves of 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet). Wind and wave damage along the coast is possible, the service said.
Temperatures are expected to drop sharply on Friday but remain within the seasonal average. Rain is forecast to gradually diminish Friday evening and overnight into Saturday.
On Saturday, localized rain is still possible, mostly light, in northern and central Israel, with temperatures remaining typical for the season. Rain is expected to intensify again toward evening, particularly in the north and along the coastal plain.
Light, localized rain could persist into Sunday morning in northern Israel and along the coast, with a slight rise in temperatures expected later in the day.