It’s (become) the most wonderful time of the year: snow in Israel! Going strong three years in a row (thanks, climate oddities). Predictions are that the coming snowstorm this Wednesday will be pretty intense, though possibly less than last year.
So, yeah, my kids totally think ‘mageya la’hem’ snow. Can’t blame them.
Nothing makes me prouder of my North American origins than an Israeli snow day. Finally, finally, I know what the fuck I’m on about.
Leggings under your outer pants? Amateur hour.
Two pairs of gloves – thin clothy kind under, bulky thinsulate kind over? Of course.
Plastic bags over your socks, rubber bands around your ankles? Obviously.
Digging out your beach boogie board for sledding? That’s just survival of the fittest.
Happen to own a pair of snow-protective Merrells because I liked them and they were on sale in New York in March and I’ve worn them inappropriately for four years in the Middle East but now I’m forever prepared with dry warm feet? Extra credit.
Here are a few more Israel-specific tips we learned from last year:
- Now – like, right now – turn on your yunkers (centrally-heated radiators), if you have them, even on low… it will warm your home enough that you will definitely feel a difference if (when) the power goes out.
- Keep your cell phone charging whenever you have power for the times that you won’t. Note, 3G will probably go too.
- Similarly, keep your laptop charged so you can use it as a backup charging station for your phone.
- Close your trisim (hard window shades), at least overnight, to keep warmth in.
- Prep alternative methods of cooking – if you don’t have a gas stove, consider getting a gaziya/prepping yours with a full gas balloon. One reason, really: coffee.
What other things you need to have on hand, in order of importance:
Milk- Chocolate
- Milk
- Gloves, boots, hats
- Plastic bags and rubber bands
- Flashlights, batteries
- Candles, matches
- Fun neighbors
- Entertainment
- BAKING SUPPLIES. That should have been after milk. (Sorry, neighbors).
What you need to NOT DO AT ALL COSTS:
- Pour boiling water (or water of any kind) on the ice in your driveway/street/shared outdoor spaces.
- I will repeat that: DO NOT POUR WATER ON ICE TO MELT IT.
- Do. Not. Pour. Hot. Water. On. Ice. To. Melt. It.
Enjoy it! We’re pumped. Have fun. Share your pics. Rub it in your Tel Aviv friends’ faces.
And remember, neighbors: snow responsibly.
Whadya got: