Good morning dear readers!

The new year really started off stormy. And not just in regards to the situation in our region. In all respects, we find ourselves today in the “calm before the storm.” At least that’s how I feel, while at the same time hoping that it will only apply to the weather, and we can go on living our lives in relative peace.

Speaking of, it was bitterly cold this morning when I got off the bus on my way to our editorial offices. But I was prepared, having been warned by numerous radio reports. So I took my wool hat out of my pocket, followed shortly after by warm gloves. That may sound exaggerated, but at 4°C (39.2°F) with the current wind chill, it is very cold in Jerusalem! The sky is gray and we are told by meteorologists to expect another major winter storm.

New Israel weather patterns demand greater caution

The storm a few days ago claimed four lives. That can’t happen again. And so the authorities have issued new instructions on how to act during the storm. Elevators are to be avoided when there is heavy rain, cars must keep off flooded streets, and parking in underground parking lots is a no-no. Unfortunately, we learn best from failure and tragedy. Still, would you have ever imagined people drowning in an elevator? Even the foreign press reported on this tragedy.

Let us hope that we will weather the new storm and that all the other situations will remain calm here in the country. It would be great if a winter storm were the only problem with which to contend here in Israel. But I would still have one problem: I forgot my umbrella before traveling to Jerusalem today! At the same time, Israel weather if fickle, so maybe it won’t start pouring before I get home.

With those thoughts, I and the rest of the editorial staff of Israel Today wish you a pleasant and, above all, quiet Wednesday.

Shalom from Jerusalem!