Israel Sees Localized Heavy Rains, Crete Hit by Severe Storm

The Israel Meteorological Service reported on Saturday evening that a weekend rain system brought widespread, albeit brief and localized, downpours across Israel, from the northern Galilee region down to Ashkelon in the south. While the rain fell for short periods, it was intense, with significant amounts accumulating rapidly. The village of Meilya in the Galilee recorded the highest short-term rainfall, with 17 mm in approximately 10 minutes. Other areas also saw notable precipitation, including Kibbutz Dafna with 13 mm, Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights, Karmiel, and Acre each with 6 mm. Ashkelon on the southern coast received 7 mm in a few minutes during Friday night.

The erratic weather was attributed to a large weather system developing in the central Mediterranean, which sent cooler air into the region. This same system caused a severe storm on the island of Crete, where a staggering 360 mm of rain fell, leading to extensive infrastructure damage and fatalities.

Looking ahead, the Meteorological Service stated that no rain is expected in Israel for the next two days. However, by Tuesday, a southern weather system, characterized by the sub-tropical jet stream typical of transitional seasons, is forecast to affect the country. High and mid-level clouds are expected, with a possibility of light rain in the Negev and Arava regions from the afternoon onwards. The public is advised to continue monitoring weather forecasts.