Snow fell on Yom Ha’Atzmaut on the Hermon for the first time in 32 years Thursday, and rain from the Northern Negev to the Galilee doused thousands of barbecues.
The unusual weather did not stop the Israel Air Force from carrying out its annual aerial flights over the entire country, from Eilat in the south to the northern border.
Approximately 140,000 visited national parks, holding on their hats on their way.
Gale force winds howled in the Galilee and in higher elevations in the Hebron Hills. During the day, heavy rain fell on several areas, including Gush Etzion and as far south as Kiryat Gat, 27 miles north of Be’er Sheva.
The annual air show featured old Beechcraft prop planes and modern F-15 jets.
President Reuven Rivlin awarded at his official residence in Jerusalem 120 soldiers for their distinguished service.
The IDF opened Arm, Navy and Air Force bases for visitors.
