Winter Weather Returns to Israel with Rain and Cooler Temperatures

Israel is set to experience a significant shift in weather as a winter system moves in, bringing rain and a noticeable drop in temperatures starting Thursday and continuing through the weekend. On Thursday, skies will be partly cloudy to cloudy, with local showers expected in the morning, primarily in the north. Temperatures will see a slight decrease but will remain mostly seasonable. The forecast indicates that rain will intensify overnight Thursday into Friday, spreading to the coastal plain accompanied by isolated thunderstorms. On Friday, intermittent rain is forecast for northern and central Israel, also with isolated thunderstorms. Local rain is expected in the northern Negev, and potential local flooding along the coastal plain is anticipated, especially before noon. Strong winds will blow across most regions, and temperatures will be lower than average for the season. The weather is expected to continue into Saturday, with intermittent rain and isolated thunderstorms in the north and center. Local flooding is possible along the coastal plain, and by the afternoon, local showers are expected in the northern Negev. Flash floods are a concern in the streams of the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea region. Westerly winds will be strong throughout most of the country, and temperatures will drop further, making it colder than usual for this time of year.