The U.S. State Department has urged American citizens in Israel to take the necessary precautions in light of this week's expected snowstorm, warning of major inconveniencies for those in higher elevations. In a new online advisory titled "Possible Inclement Weather Expected Throughout Israel January 5-10, 2015" the department said the harsh conditions could cause major disruptions similar to the those caused by the massive blizzard in December 2013, which caught the authorities -- and average Israelis -- off guard. The statement singles out Jerusalem, the Golan Heights and the Galilee as the areas most likely to be affected by snow. "We advise you to monitor the weather conditions, plan ahead, and prepare for any scheduled travel accordingly," the State Department statement read. It further suggests that Americans "consider deferring any nonessential travel to impacted areas." Echoing the public-service announcements issued by local authorities, the State Department said people should "pack warm winter clothing, boots, water, shovel, and emergency food supplies in the event you are stranded." The State Department noted that Israeli authorities may be overwhelmed by the uncharacteristically cold weather, citing the "road closures and perilous driving conditions" that effectively paralyzed Jerusalem and other areas in 2013. "Even a small amount of snow accumulation" can cause such disruptions, the statement warned. As a precaution, those traveling to the affected areas should make sure they have enough fuel in their car, the statement said. The Jerusalem municipality will continue to update its website as the storm develops. Special advisories and other public announcements on road closures and public transportation will be posted on www.jerusalem.muni.il. The city has yet to decide whether schools will remain open during the storm.
Interestingly, the statement refers to Jerusalem and the Golan Heights as "parts of Israel," when official U.S. policy does not recognize Israel sovereignty in these areas.
Some 3 centimeters (1 inch) of snow piled up at the base of the Mount Hermon ski resort on Saturday. At the upper slopes the accumulated snowfall was as high as 5 centimeters (2 inches). Site managers hope that after Wednesday, when the storm is expected to peak, suitable ski conditions will attract throngs of visitors. "The snowplows, the salt spreaders, the snowcats, and the ski lifts are all ready for the big blizzard," site administrator Shaul Ohana told Israel Hayom on Saturday.
