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    The forecast was very promising: The temperatures were unusually warm for this time of year (around 18 Celsius, when the average for January in Jerusalem is around 7). Surface winds were forecasted to be from the west, and mid-level winds were from the south, which was also unusual for this time of year. Winds from the south promised high humidity and high temperature in mid-level. I decided to stay around Jerusalem, and my chase destination was the southern hills around the city.

    In about 9:30, a few cumulus clouds appeared. The temperatues were rising, and already reached 15 degrees Celsius. The cumulus weren't showing great convection, though. I went to southern Jerusalem to get a better view, and I noticed a short line of altocumulus, with towers shooting up and down. The time was 13:15. I watched the line, which quickly developed a very dark, flat updraft base. The temperatues were now 18C. I followed the cloud for 20 minutes, and finally one of the towers continued growing, right in front of my eyes. I observed a cork-screw formation in the tower, as it spinned upwards. Very quickly it developed a small anvil, and an alto-cumulonimbus cloud developed. The base was completely rain-free. It did produce some severe winds and hail, for a short time. I continued my chase as it moved very fast north-eastward, but unfortunately it died, as rain entered the updraft area.