Storm Byron Approaches Israel as Forecasters Warn of Major Flooding By The Media Line Staff As heavy rains hit the center of the country on Wednesday morning, Israel is bracing for the impact of Storm Byron, which has already created severe weather conditions in the region. The Israel Meteorological Service (IMS) says the system will strengthen overnight into Thursday, when some areas […]
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The Media Line: Storm Byron Approaches Israel as Forecasters Warn of Major Flooding
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Storm Byron Approaches Israel as Forecasters Warn of Major Flooding
By The Media Line Staff
As heavy rains hit the center of the country on Wednesday morning, Israel is bracing for the impact of Storm Byron, which has already created severe weather conditions in the region. The Israel Meteorological Service (IMS) says the system will strengthen overnight into Thursday, when some areas may receive 100–150 millimeters of rain as the storm reaches its peak.
Showers will intensify in the north, Gush Dan, the coastal plain, and low-lying urban zones, where flooding is expected to develop quickly. Forecasters say the rain belt will expand south, reaching the Negev and the Dead Sea area, where sudden runoff could trigger fast-moving flash floods in desert channels. Thunderstorms are expected on and off throughout the day and night, maintaining elevated risks across the country.
Byron, which caused severe flooding in Greece over the past week, makes landfall in northern Israel earlier than projected and continues its slow movement inland. The IMS issues a coastal risk alert and warns of lightning, strong winds, and poor visibility that may disrupt travel and complicate emergency responses.
Authorities urge residents to take precautions as conditions worsen. Those in flood-prone areas should secure loose outdoor items, clear building drains, and avoid underground parking lots or basements during intense rainfall. Drivers are advised not to cross flooded roadways, to reduce speed, and to remain alert for sudden water accumulation.
Travelers and hikers in the Negev and Dead Sea region are instructed to stay away from wadis, where flash floods can form with little warning even when rain falls outside the immediate area. Anyone planning outdoor trips is encouraged to postpone them until the weather stabilizes.
Municipal and emergency crews remain on high readiness, preparing pumps and inspecting drainage systems ahead of the storm’s expected peak between Wednesday night and Thursday. Intermittent rain is likely to continue after the worst of the system passes, and additional alerts may be issued depending on Byron’s path.