Israel was girding Monday morning for the arrival of a powerful winter storm expected to bring high winds, heavy rain, near-freezing temperatures and even some snow to the area over the next several days.
Authorities warned that some parts of the country could see flooding from winter storm Barbara, which is also forecast to come with isolated thunderstorms.
Heavy rains and gusting winds of up to 35 knots are slated to come ashore in northern Israel starting Monday morning, before eventually spreading across the country, the Israel Meteorological Service said.
The heaviest winds were expected along the coast, turning the sea dangerously turbulent.
Inland, authorities warned of flash floods as rains inundate the dry northern Negev and Judean Desert.
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Some parts of the country may see downpours of 15 millimeters or more per six-hour period, before the rain begins to let up on Wednesday, the IMS predicted.
If the rain and wind were not enough, temperatures are expected to plunge once the initial front moves through, with mountainous areas seeing the mercury near freezing, though even colder temperatures are expected early next week.
Snow is forecast to fall on Mount Hermon Monday, and by Tuesday night high elevation areas in the north and center may also see flurries, according to forecasts.
The rain and winds are expected to taper off Wednesday and Thursday, giving way to frigid temperatures beneath a partly cloudy sky.
Barbara is coming to Israel after dumping snow on Athens and other parts of Greece, hampering activity. At sea, high winds forced ships and ferries to alter sailing plans.
