rain
rainIsrael news file

As winter progresses, Israelis are celebrating the welcome splashing of much-needed rains, which have been falling sporadically over the last week. However, no more of the badly needed rain is expected for at least several days.

The plentiful rains which came down in the northern Negev Tuesday morning have caused flooding in Nahal Zin, resulting in the closure of Highway 40 to traffic between Nifcha and Mitzpe Ramon.

Traffic was also disrupted between Mitzpe Ramon and the famous 40-kilometer Ramon crater due to a mudslide. Part of Highway 90 was shut off to drivers due to erosion of the road. Police are requesting that drivers exercise caution and try to avoid driving in the area.

Scattered rain showers fell in the morning, accompanied by occasional thunderstorms in various parts of the country.  Rain fall began tapering off in the evening, with a significant fall in temperatures. Officials warn that there is a still a danger of flooding in Negev area brooks, the Dead Sea area, and the Arava.

On Wednesday, the weather is expected to be bright and clear, with a slight rise in temperatures. Thursday will be clear to partly cloudy, with additional increases in temperature, with another pleasant day expected on Friday. Dry and hotter than normal weather is forecast into the beginning of next week.

Swimmers in the Mediterranean Sea are being warned that due to weather predictions for the next few days, the water will be turbulent and could be dangerous.