Severe Winter Storm Threatens Southern Israel; Police will Close These Major Highways 

Israeli police have announced proactive closures of several major highways in the southern region starting from 1:30 p.m. today, in preparation for an incoming winter storm expected to bring heavy rainfall, flash floods, and potential urban flooding.

Following a special situation assessment today (Monday) by the Southern District Police, and as part of overall considerations to protect public safety and road users, the decision was made to implement preemptive closures on traffic routes throughout the south ahead of the impending rain:

Starting at 13:30, the following roads will be closed to vehicle traffic:

Police noted that, for the time being, traffic to Eilat and the Arava communities will be possible via Highway 90, but clarified that "throughout the day, traffic disruptions are expected on Highway 90 from Ein Gedi to Eilat."

Police reiterated their request to the public: allow officers to carry out their duties, plan routes and departure times in advance according to weather conditions and the planned closures, this will help ensure safe arrival without unnecessary delays.

According to the Israel Meteorological Service, the rain that could bring flooding and flash floods is expected to begin today, and it may be dangerous for Hanukkah outings.

Local showers fell in places along the coast this morning, but from this afternoon, rains will gradually intensify in the north and center, and from late afternoon, they will reach northern and central Negev, the Arava, the Judean Desert, and the Dead Sea area, including the risk of flash floods and flooding in these regions.

In the evening and overnight, localized flooding is also possible along the coast, including the northern coast, but flooding could be more significant on the southern coast and in the Gaza envelope.

Tomorrow, (Tuesday), rains are expected to stop during the morning, but another wave of rain is forecast overnight, mainly from the center southward, at lower intensities, accompanied by cold weather and therefore possible snowflakes on the high peaks of the northern Golan.

In addition, renewed flash floods are expected in the Negev, and only during Wednesday will the rains stop, first in the center and by evening also in the Negev, so the risk of flash floods in the Negev area remains on that day as well.