Israel hit by snowstorms, gales in first big freeze of the winter
Temperatures in the country dip to record lows this winter as rain spreads from the north to the center of the country; Mount Hermon closes for visitors as the site is hit by snowstorms.
Strong winds were expected to spread throughout the country Sunday, except in the south, where it was expected to be misty and dry. Flood warnings were in place in the north for Sunday afternoon, as the rain was expected to spread and strengthen.
Snowstorm on Mount Hermon
By evening, light snow was expected in the northern Golan Heights and the Galilee mountains, including the villages adjacent to the Hermon, such as the Druze towns of Majdal Shams and Neve Ativ.
According to the Meteo-Tech meteorological company, two storm systems will hit the region simultaneously at the beginning of the week, with the third hitting the country on Saturday, giving way to the coldest weather so far this winter with some 100-150 mm of rain expected to fall throughout the week.
The southwest winds in the Mediterranean Sea will reach speeds of up to 96.5 kph (60 mph), while the height of the waves could reach of up to 4 meters (13 feet).
The storms will gradually weaken toward Monday, but intermittent rain and snow is expected to fall in the northern parts of the country and Mt. Hermon. Although the winds might weaken slightly, in northern Israel the gusts still could reach the speed of up to 112 kph (70 mph).
On Tuesday, it will be rainy and stormy in the north of the country once again, while snow will continue to accumulate on the Hermon. In central Israel, conditions will be foggy, accompanied by possible showers in the afternoon. In the south of the country, the weather will be dry and cloudy.