Israel is bracing for an unusual cold front expected to peak over the weekend, with snowfall predicted in the northern and central mountains—including the capital, Jerusalem. According to the Israel Meteorological Service, the winter storm will intensify as the weekend approaches. The first snowflakes are expected late Thursday night into early Friday in the northern Golan Heights, gradually spreading southward.
By Friday, snowfall is expected to reach the Upper Galilee region and the city of Safed (Tzfat).
Jerusalem Braces for Snowfall
As temperatures continue to drop overnight from Friday into Saturday, snowfall is predicted to reach mountain elevations of 500–600 meters in the north and higher elevations in central Israel. By Saturday morning, the freezing air mass is expected to push further south, potentially bringing snow to the Jerusalem mountains and even to the city itself which tends to get snowfall only once every few years.
Uncertainty Over Snow Accumulation
While meteorologists remain confident about the cold temperatures, uncertainty remains regarding the exact amount of precipitation and the potential for significant snow accumulation. The Israel Meteorological Service advises that more precise forecasts will be available within the next 24–48 hours, but a major winter event is all but certain.
Regardless of snowfall levels, freezing temperatures and stormy conditions are expected across the country, making this one of the most significant winter weather events of the season.
