Three emergency centers were opened and more than 350 people were treated for symptoms due to the cold weather. More than 1500 people were evacuated from stranded vehicles overnight. In Gaza, this is the first snow in a decade and people were not prepared for cold temperatures. More than 500 persons were evacuated. UN relief teams offered help by emergency services. Warnings were launched through the help of mass media, Friday, not to enter or leave Jerusalem. Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat said he asked the military for assistance. Normally, Jerusalem is characterized by a hot summer Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters. Snow usually occur once or twice a winter.
This moment was also scheduled for a visit of the U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and an official meeting with the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
