From January 5 – 10, 2015, the Israel Meteorological Services is warning of stormy weather conditions (to include snow accumulation) in various parts of Israel (specifically Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, and the Galilee region). We advise you to monitor the weather conditions, plan ahead, and prepare for any scheduled travel accordingly. Similar weather conditions at this same time of year in 2014 resulted in the closure of major roadways, stranded and isolated motorists, and difficult/perilous travel conditions.
- Monitor the weather conditions and consider deferring any non-essential travel to impacted areas.
- Even a small amount of snow accumulation can result in road closures and perilous driving conditions, especially in elevated areas.
- If you are required to travel under these conditions, ensure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel. Pack warm winter clothing, boots, water, shovel, and emergency food supplies in the event you are stranded.
- If you are stranded, it is advisable you remain with your vehicle, call police for assistance and standby for further instructions.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Internet website where the Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found, including the current Travel Warning for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers outside of the United States and Canada, on a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
U.S. citizens are advised to maintain valid travel documents and enroll with the Department of State or the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv through the State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/.
For further information, U.S. citizens may telephone the Embassy in Tel Aviv at (972) (3) 519-7575 during working hours or the Consulate General in Jerusalem at (972) (2) 630-4000. After hours (for emergencies), U.S. citizens may telephone either the Embassy in Tel Aviv at (972) (3) 519-7551 or the Consulate General in Jerusalem at (972) (2) 622-7250.
