Israel is preparing for heavy rainfall and potential flooding as Storm Byron approaches. According to forecasts, up to 200 millimeters of rain could fall along the coastal plain and in the north, raising the risk of flash floods from the shoreline to the Negev.
source: ynetnews.com
Dr. Amir Givati, director of the Israel Meteorological Service, told ynet that this is a prolonged weather event that will intensify gradually, peaking overnight Wednesday into Thursday, especially on Thursday morning. “There will be flooding, but Tel Aviv will not be underwater,” he stressed.
Rain is expected to begin today, locally heavy, especially near the northern coast. In the evening, heavy rainfall will spread along the coastal plain.
On Wednesday, thunderstorms and intense rain are expected from the north to the northern Negev, increasing the risk of flooding in lowland and coastal areas. From noon onward, rain is also expected in the Negev and the Dead Sea region, where flash floods are possible.
The storm is forecast to peak late Wednesday night and throughout Thursday, with the heaviest downpours along the coast and in the lowlands. Significant flooding is likely, especially in the southern coastal plain from Rishon Lezion to Ashkelon. Flash floods are also expected near the Dead Sea.
Rain and flooding may continue into Friday, with possible temporary road closures, though rainfall intensity is expected to decrease gradually.
Dr. Givati emphasized that Storm Byron is not a hurricane or a tropical system but will bring strong winds of 80–90 km/h. “We’ve seen similar winds in recent years. The main focus is the rainfall,” he said, warning that some streets in central cities may be closed due to water accumulation.
Responding to claims that Tel Aviv cannot withstand 100 millimeters of rain in a day, he urged the public not to panic: “The talk on social media is exaggerated. This is not a hurricane, and Tel Aviv will not be underwater. Yes, it’s a significant rain event, but cities can handle it.”
He advised people to avoid elevators and underground parking during heavy rain and to follow emergency instructions. “Municipalities in central Israel are strong and well-prepared. Flooding is possible but manageable.”
Dr. Givati did not rule out temporary closures on the Ayalon Highway, noting: “Anything is possible. The water volume will be significant. We are monitoring the situation closely. We are not currently expecting Ayalon to flood as it has in the past, but strong flow is likely and short-term closures are possible.”
He linked the sharp weather shift — unseasonably warm temperatures followed by sudden heavy rain — to climate change, calling it “a textbook example of extreme weather driven by global warming.”