Israel Braces for Flooding as Storm Brings Rain and Thunderstorms

Israel is experiencing a significant weather event with a rain front impacting the country from Friday, November 6, through Sunday, November 8. The meteorological service has issued warnings for heavy rainfall and potential flooding, particularly in coastal areas and riverbeds. Orange alerts for significant precipitation and flooding risks are in effect for the Carmel region, the northern, central, and southern Mediterranean coast, and the Shefela until Saturday evening. A yellow alert for flash floods is active in the northern Judean Desert and Dead Sea areas. The storm is expected to bring two main waves of rain, with the first on Friday and the second on Saturday, characterized by localized, intense downpours interspersed with dry periods. As of Friday afternoon, no major flooding incidents had been reported, but local authorities are on high alert, with municipal services in coastal cities prepared for worsening conditions. On Saturday, rain and thunderstorms are forecast to continue in the north and center, extending to the northern Negev, with the highest risk of flooding in central and southern coastal towns. Flash floods remain a possibility in the Judean Desert and Dead Sea regions. Temperatures will be below average for this time of year. The sea is expected to be rough with waves of 1-1.8 meters and winds of 15-40 km/h, making it dangerous for swimming, especially in the afternoon. Localized rain and thunderstorms may persist in the north and center on Sunday morning, with a chance of localized flooding before gradually subsiding by the afternoon. Temperatures will remain below seasonal averages. Israeli police are advising against non-essential travel to flood-prone areas and cautioning against crossing flooded roads or riverbeds. Emergency services, including Magen David Adom and fire departments, are on heightened readiness, with specialized vehicles prepared for difficult terrain.