Storm Byron begins to hit Israel as officials warn of difficult conditions: ‘Rain expected like we’ve never seen’

Intensive preparations are underway as Storm Byron begins to hit Israel after battering Greece and Cyprus, with concerns of flooding in coastal regions and high winds.

Rain began to fall overnight and is expected to intensify as the day goes on, peaking tonight and tomorrow.

Residents of the entire country are warned to prepare for difficult weather conditions

“Winds will reach speeds of 90 km per hour in some places, with significant rain expected, the likes of which we have not seen,” Sgt. Yossi Deklo, from the Israeli Fire and Rescue Services tells the Kan public broadcaster.

Drainage infrastructure is expected to struggle to cope with the amounts of precipitation.

Residents have been warned not to use elevators to reach underground parking lots after a tragic incident in 2020.

The Israel Meteorological Service has also advised against swimming in the Mediterranean due to high waves and severe tidal changes.

Meanwhile, searches are ongoing for an Israeli yacht that was en route to Cyprus when it lost contact with authorities.