Autumn Arrives with Rain During Sukkot Holiday

The intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday are experiencing unseasonably cool and autumnal weather across Israel, with temperatures below average, strong winds, and significant cloud cover. Localized rainfall has already been recorded in various parts of the country, with the north seeing approximately 2 to 5 millimeters in recent days, and some areas experiencing heavier showers than typical for late September and early October.

Localized showers are expected to continue on Wednesday, primarily in northern Israel and along the coastal plain, with some potentially significant rainfall. The weather will remain cool for the season, with abundant clouds and noticeable winds. Thursday will also see scattered rain in the north and center, but the main precipitation is anticipated towards the weekend.

Hoshana Rabbah, on Friday, is forecast to bring increased rainfall, especially from the afternoon into the evening, with the north expected to receive an additional 10 to 20 millimeters locally. While rain is possible in the center, it will likely be lighter. Those planning outdoor activities or spending extended time in their sukkahs, particularly in the north, should prepare for showers.

Another wave of rain is expected between Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, coinciding with the Simchat Torah holiday. The focus will again be on northern Israel, the northern coast, and the Sharon region. However, this is not expected to be a widespread winter system, with the main weather activity remaining over the Mediterranean Sea and only its fringes affecting Israel.

Following the weekend, the rain is expected to cease, and the weather should stabilize until at least the middle of next week. Early indications suggest the possibility of another rain system further out, but it is too soon to confirm its arrival.