Israel's unseasonable autumn heat will begin to ease Saturday, with temperatures falling across much of the country ahead of a more significant change in the weather Tuesday, when local rain and thunderstorms are forecast, along with a risk of flash flooding in southern streambeds.
Saturday will be partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping mainly along the coastal plain, in the lowlands and in the northern Negev. Despite the decrease, conditions will remain warmer than usual for late October in most parts of the country.
Nahal Ayun Nature Reserve in northern Israel
(Photo: Naji Rashash, Israel Nature and Parks Authority)
Northerly winds are expected to strengthen along the Mediterranean coast during the afternoon. Overnight, heavy mist and fog may reduce visibility in parts of the Negev.
Temperatures will fall further Sunday, bringing relief from the recent heat. Conditions are expected to return to seasonal averages across most of Israel.
The cooler weather will be short-lived, however. Temperatures are forecast to rise again Monday, reaching above-average levels, particularly in mountainous areas and inland regions.
A more substantial change is expected Tuesday, October 27. Temperatures will drop, with local rain forecast across most parts of the country. From midday, rainfall is expected to intensify mainly in southern Israel, accompanied by thunderstorms.
The wet weather could trigger flash floods in streambeds across the southern Negev, the Arava Valley and the Dead Sea region, areas particularly vulnerable to sudden flooding during heavy rain.
Despite Saturday's cooling trend, some inland areas will remain particularly warm, with highs of 35°C forecast in Tiberias and Beit She'an. Jerusalem is expected to reach 27°C, while Tel Aviv and Haifa will see highs of 28°C.
Forecast temperatures for Saturday and overnight (low-high, °C): Jerusalem 19–27, Tel Aviv 21–28, Haifa 22–28, Safed 20–29, Katzrin 23–32, Tiberias 24–35, Nazareth 22–32, Afula 20–34, Beit She'an 24–35, Lod 22–30, Ashdod 22–29, Ein Gedi 27–32, Beersheba 21–29, Mitzpe Ramon 19–26 and Eilat 24–33.