Israel on Wednesday was making last-ditch preparations for the onset of the Elpis winter storm, which already wrecked havoc in some parts of Europe, with heavy snow expected in Jerusalem for the first time this season.
The Elpis blizzard brought down heavy snow on the Greek capital of Athens as well as in Turkey, mostly in Istanbul, with essential services suspended in many areas and rescue crews working long hours.
In the morning hours, snow began to fall in the northern Golan Heights and the Hermon Mount, where at least 20cm of snow accumulated overnight.
The police said they've blocked several roads in the Golan Heights, including Route 99, Route 959, Route 91 and Route 98. The police's traffic department advised drivers to consider "road conditions" when taking a trip. "During rain or snow, one should slow down the speed of travel."
Snow is expected to spread to central mountains, including in Jerusalem in the afternoon hours. Municipal teams were bracing for at least 10-20cm of snow by Thursday morning, in what would be the first snow storm of the year in the capital.
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Jerusalem prepares snow removal equipment ahead of storm's onset
(Photo: Yoav Dudkevich)
City officials said they were prepared to assist any stranded travelers and that they would attempt to keep roads in and out of the city, clear from obstructions. The municipality called on residents to receive updates via local media reports and on the city's website.
Th Fire and Rescue Authority officials in Jerusalem urged the public to "avoid unnecessary adventures" as well as avoid driving in the snow "unnecessarily".
The authority also warned of potential fires as a result of the excessive use of unsafe means of heating, "such as coil heaters and heat spreaders attached to beds or other flammable materials".
Many West Bank settlements are also preparing for snow. An emergency headquarters has been set up and the council has prepared tractors for leveling the snow.
In addition, between 100 and 150mm of rain is expected by Saturday in various parts of the country and there is a risk of flooding in the coastal area.
On Thursday, temperatures will rise slightly, but it will still be rainy and wintry. On Friday, it will continue to be rainy and wintry, with snow expected on Mount Hermon. On Saturday, local rains are expected in some parts of the country, and on Sunday the weather is set to be clear.
Reuters contributed to this report