Rains fell throughout Shabbat in the southern Negev and the Arava, accompanied by thunderstorms and hail.
The rainfall is expected to continue in the coming hours and may cause flash floods in the region’s riverbeds. Later in the day, rain also began falling along the central coastal plain.
Due to flooding, police closed Route 40 from Ne'ot Smadar to Mitzpe Ramon.
Because of flooding along several sections of Route 90 in the Arava, the northern exit from Eilat was closed to traffic. All access roads to and from Eilat are currently blocked, including Route 12 from the Shizafon Junction to the city.
Eilat Mayor Eli Lankri said municipal teams are fully prepared and equipped for rapid response.
“We ask the public to follow instructions and avoid riverbeds and flood-prone areas. Our preparedness is precise, coordinated, and comprehensive, ensuring that city systems function optimally. Police also prepared in advance at the entrances and exits to the city and closed access roads as needed. Eilat is ready, and we are here for the public, so together we can keep our city safe and strong,” Lankri added.
The Nature and Parks Authority announced that several sites were closed due to the weather and road closures. Closed sites in the south include the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, the Hai-Bar Yotvata Reserve, and the Ein Bokek Reserve. In northern Israel, the Tel Dan Nature Reserve was closed due to weather conditions.
In the coming hours and into the evening, heavy rains and flooding are expected across southern Israel, from Eilat, through the Negev highlands, and up to the northern Arava. Israel Police is urging the public to stay away from riverbeds due to the high risk of flooding.