The Israel Meteorological Service has forecast snow, sharply colder temperatures and high winds for Jerusalem, beginning Tuesday evening, January 6, 2015 and continuing on Wednesday, January 7.

Shaare Zedek Medical Center, which delivered 150 babies during the December 2013 blizzard and cared for a large number of people who suffered from storm-related injuries, in addition to conducting “business as usual,” is gearing up for the storm which may bring snow accumulations that can equal last year’s 20 inches.

Uri Schwarz, Shaare Zedek’s Director of Resource Development, said, “On Wednesday, 7 am, the nurses will start to work in 12 hour shifts instead of the usual eight and the Hospital will provide transportation for staff based on all main arteries being accessible for vans with snow chains.” In addition, maintenance teams will work to ensure that access routes within the Hospital campus are kept clear and will coordinate efforts with the police and rescue services to keep access routes to Shaare Zedek as clear as possible.

In December 2013, many staff members rode out the three-day storm at Shaare Zedek, working multiple shifts and taking breaks whenever they could.