For various technical reasons, the predicted massive snow storm that was due to close Jerusalem down yesterday was a bit of a damp squib. Computer modelling of the weather and interpretation is a very delicate business: we had massive rain in Tel Aviv and that rain was supposed to quickly push south east and become a huge amount of snow over the hills. As it turned out an unexpectedly strong extra wind stream pushed up from the south and slowed the front down.
However that’s not the point of my post. There is probably more snow on the way very soon for the Gush Etzion region to the south and above Jerusalem and I just saw this message from the mayor of Efrat (one of the bigger towns there):
“Important and urgent message:
After speaking to army authorities, there is another wave of snow coming our way at about 17:00.
The meaning is that the roads will close quickly.
Whoever has to prepare for Shabbat should do so in the next few hours.
We advise whoever intends on leaving Efrat for Shabbat to do so immediately.
Guests that intend on arriving for Shabbat should come a.s.a.p
If you do choose to drive be aware of strong water flowing that can cause resistance to your wheels that may result in slipping or loss of control.
The prediction is that tomorrow will be even more difficult and the abilities will be limited.
We will keep you updated.
Together we will get through the storm safely.”
The point of giving urgent warning now is that by Friday afternoon, if everything is snowed in, people who observe the sabbath will not be able to move or shop. It is a small detail, but it’s only in a Jewish country that a specifically Jewish piece of advice comes straight from the mayor and doesn’t feel forced or an imposition on others.
