Israel to face strong winds, high gusts throughout Saturday afternoon, Meteorological Service warns

Israel's Meteorological Service issued a Yellow Warning for strong southwesterly winds across most of the country on Saturday afternoon, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with speeds up to 50 kph and gusts reaching 70 kph. Risks include difficult driving, power failures, and falling trees. Additionally, a High Sea Swimming Danger Orange Warning was issued for the coastline until 10:00 p.m. due to waves up to 2 meters, posing risks of drowning and capsizing for boats. These warnings follow forecasts of an unusual rain event and potential flooding over the weekend, prompting the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority to reinforce its forces. Fire Commissioner Tafser Eyal Caspi instructed all districts to move to "heightened readiness" ahead of the storm's peak, expected overnight between Saturday and Sunday, with rainfall potentially reaching 20-30 millimeters in some areas.