Ynet reports widespread property damage, multiple injuries, air travel disruptions, and one death after a powerful storm with winds exceeding 100 kph (62 mph) and heavy rainfall struck Israel earlier today. Most of the damage was caused by uprooted trees that fell onto vehicles and homes. Emergency services reported the death of a kitesurfer in Bat Yam. Rainfall totals reached up to 30 millimeters (1.2 inches).
A 46-year-old kitesurfer was killed at Tei’o Beach in Bat Yam after being lifted from the sea by powerful winds and hurled more than 150 meters onto rocks. Another kitesurfer was slightly injured. Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency service paramedics said the man was found unconscious, without a pulse or breathing, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
High winds were accompanied by rain and thunderstorms across much of the country, delaying landings at Ben Gurion Airport. By early afternoon, more than 10 aircraft were circling overhead awaiting clearance to land. A Fly Lili flight from Athens turned back, while an El Al flight from Dubai was holding over Jordan.
Elsewhere, falling trees caused injuries and property damage. In Ashkelon, a man about 65 was moderately injured when his vehicle overturned, apparently after being struck by a falling tree, and was taken to Barzilai Medical Center.
Winds and rainfall weakened overnight, though additional precipitation is forecast for northern and central Israel tomorrow. Temperatures are expected to drop, with isolated thunderstorms developing later in the day and continuing into Sunday.
Falling trees and flying debris struck vehicles, homes, and even pedestrians. The Fellowship and its supporters pray for those recovering from injuries. In times like these, we need to remember that, with God’s help, after the storm, sunlight will come.