Storm “Byron” Hits Israel With Heavy Rain, Flood Risks and Nationwide Emergency Preparations

Storm “Byron” reached Israel on Tuesday night, bringing the first wave of heavy rain, thunder, lightning and hail along the coast. After days of warnings, the storm made landfall from Greece with rainfall already recorded across the Gush Dan and the Sharon regions, and authorities caution that the storm will intensify overnight and through Thursday, the expected peak of the system.

The storm is forecast to be the strongest weather event of the season. Israel’s major population centers along the coast rely on aging drainage systems that struggle to handle intense rainfall, making cities like Tel Aviv, Ashdod and Ashkelon vulnerable to rapid flooding, in addition to the south and Judean Desert, which have dry terrain. “Byron” is also a large Mediterranean storm system with multi-day rainfall projected across nearly the entire country, a rare scenario for Israel. Emergency teams across all agencies entered the week on heightened readiness.

On Wednesday morning, intermittent rain is expected from the north to the south. Flood risks will be highest in the Dead Sea area, the Judean Desert, and the Negev, with rain possibly reaching Eilat. A lull may develop toward the evening ahead of the main impact, and snow is forecast on the Hermon mountain. Thursday is expected to be the peak of the storm, with heavy rain from the north through the northern Negev, frequent thunderstorms, hail and strong winds.

Significant rainfall was already recorded overnight. Zichron Yaakov topped the list with 72 mm, followed by 70 mm in Ein Carmel and 60 mm in Haifa. Tel Aviv recorded 28 mm,Ashkelon 12 mm and Jerusalem saw 7 mm. 

Emergency agencies are deployed across the country. Police and Fire & Rescue teams reinforced their stations and placed swift-water rescue units near known flash-flood zones. The Electric Company added crews and prepared vehicles for deep-water movement. Local authorities opened 24/7 command centers, and Israel Railways reported delays. 

Storm “Byron” is expected to remain through early Friday before gradually weakening, with rain tapering off into the weekend. By Shabbat the system should clear, leaving only light local showers possible along the coast. Authorities continue urging the public to follow safety updates, avoid flood-prone areas and remain alert as conditions intensify.