Israel Braces for Election Day Storm After Hot Weekend

Israel is set for a significant weather shift, with a sharp change expected by election day on Tuesday. Following a weekend of unseasonably hot weather, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in the valleys, a cold front is forecast to bring rain and thunderstorms across most of the country.

On Saturday, the weather will remain hot for the season in most areas, though a slight drop in temperatures is expected along the coast, in the Shephelah, and in the northern Negev. Heatwave conditions are anticipated, with heavy heat load in the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea coast, and moderate heat load elsewhere. Northern winds will strengthen along the coast in the afternoon. The night will be partly cloudy to cloudy, with possible reduced visibility in the Negev due to dust and fog.

Sunday will see a further decrease in temperatures, returning them to seasonal norms in most regions, with a noticeable easing of the heat load. The weather will be partly cloudy. Monday will bring a return to warmer conditions, with temperatures rising above seasonal averages, particularly in the mountains and inland areas. Skies will be partly cloudy to cloudy with mid-level and high clouds.

The major change is predicted for Tuesday, election day. Temperatures are expected to drop back to seasonal levels. Localized rain is forecast for most of the country, intensifying in the afternoon, especially in the south, and accompanied by thunderstorms. The Israel Meteorological Service warns of flash floods in the southern Negev, Arava, and Dead Sea streams. This marks a significant contrast to the hot weather expected at the end of the week, coinciding with the day Israelis are scheduled to vote.