The hills of Samaria (Shomron)
The hills of Samaria (Shomron)Israel news photo: Flash 90

The IDF has cancelled what was set to be its biggest Yom Ha'atzma'ut (Independence Day) event ever in Samaria – because of the threat of rain. Speaking to Arutz 7, David Tzur, director of the Shomron Community Center, said that he understood the disappointment of thousands who planned to come, but there was no alternative. “Not many things can beat the IDF and the residents of Samaria, but apparently the weather can,” he said. “We do not want anyone to be endangered” because of the weather.

The event, which was to take place at the army base adjacent to Karnei Shomron, was to have had a range of activities, both indoor and outdoor, for participants. Among the events that had been planned were several that required electronic equipment. Tsur said that setting up and using the equipment in rainy weather could be dangerous, adding that the news of the stormy weather came as a “last minute surprise.”

With that, Tsur encouraged Israelis to enjoy events taking place at several indoor locations in northern Samaria.

Forecasts for central Samaria have the chance of rain Tuesday morning at 80%, with temperatures in the high fifties-low sixties fahrenheit. The weather should begin to clear towards afternoon, forecasters said.