Story perspectives

Severe Winter Storm Hits Israel, Causing Destruction and Tragedy

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

A powerful winter storm is battering Israel, causing heavy rain, winds, and snowfall.
The storm has triggered flooding, property damage, road closures, and power outages.
Rainfall totals in Jerusalem reached 116.7 millimeters, disrupting services and daily life.
In Gaza, the storm has contributed to at least five Palestinian deaths, including children, from hypothermia and collapsing structures.
Humanitarian officials say that aid restrictions and damage from prior conflicts worsen the situation.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1888, which struck from March 11-14, was one of the deadliest blizzards in U.S. history, claiming over 400 lives and paralyzing cities from Chesapeake Bay to Maine. The storm's unexpected onset during a warm spell caught many off guard, leading to significant transportation failures and prompting infrastructure changes, including the development of underground rail systems in New York and Boston.

1 of 2

Story summary

A powerful winter storm is battering Israel, causing heavy rain, winds, and snowfall.
The storm has triggered flooding, property damage, road closures, and power outages.
Rainfall totals in Jerusalem reached 116.7 millimeters, disrupting services and daily life.
In Gaza, the storm has contributed to at least five Palestinian deaths, including children, from hypothermia and collapsing structures.
Humanitarian officials say that aid restrictions and damage from prior conflicts worsen the situation.

1 / 2