Route 40 Closed as Flash Floods Expected in Southern Israel

Israel Police announced Tuesday that Route 40 will be closed to traffic starting at 1:00 PM in both directions between Mitzpe Ramon and Tzihor Junction, due to severe weather expected to strike the southern region and the forecast for flash floods.

"Officers from the Southern District and the National Traffic Police will be deployed along the routes and will work to regulate traffic, with the aim of ensuring the safety and security of road users," police said in a statement. "We call on the public to plan their journeys in advance, stay updated on road conditions, and follow the instructions of officers in the field. Do not cross flooded roads or enter flood zones."

Police added that they "will continue to update according to weather developments and the condition of the routes. For any unusual incident requiring immediate police intervention, contact the emergency hotline at 100."

A significant weather system is heading toward the southern and eastern regions of the country. According to forecasts, it will begin Tuesday afternoon and continue through Wednesday, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, hail, and strong wind gusts. The expected flash floods could lead to closures of major traffic routes in the Negev, the Arava, and the Dead Sea area.

At the same time, the Meteorological Service issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms and lightning moving northeast at a speed of 20 km/h. The warning is in effect for the central and southern coastal sea areas, the central and southern coastal plain, the Shephelah, northern Samaria, and the northwest and western Negev.