Israel Breaks Heatwave as Unprecedented August Rainstorm Approaches

Israel is experiencing a significant weather shift as a heatwave breaks and an unusual rainstorm is forecast for the weekend. On Thursday, temperatures remained high, especially in mountainous and inland areas, with heavy heat conditions persisting. However, a gradual cooling is expected on Friday, bringing relief as temperatures return to seasonal norms.

Starting Saturday morning, light drizzle and localized rain are expected mainly in northern Israel, with more substantial rainfall predicted overnight into Sunday. The rainstorm will extend from the north down to the northern Negev, focusing along the coastal plain from the northern coast through Sharon to the Gush Dan and Shephelah regions. The heaviest rain, potentially 20 to 30 millimeters within one to three hours, is expected early Sunday morning.

This weather event is marked by thunderstorms, lightning, and possible hail, raising concerns about urban flooding, especially in low-lying areas, roads, and underpasses along the coastal plain. The Israel Meteorological Service director, Dr. Amir Givati, described the event as unprecedented for August, noting the potential to break the historical August rainfall record of 33 millimeters set in Kfar Galim in 1971. Authorities have issued special warnings for possible local flooding due to the storm's intensity and rapid rainfall.

Residents are advised to prepare for sudden weather changes and heed flood warnings, particularly in coastal cities. The storm's peak is expected early Sunday, marking a rare meteorological event for Israel in late summer.