Nahal Hatira Flows After Blessing Rains in Negev

The rain may have disappointed hikers who planned outdoor trips, but it has already begun filling the wadis with water. The stormy weather reached the Negev wadis on Tuesday, and Nahal Hatira now appears full and flowing after heavy rainfall in the area.

The storm system that arrived in the south began at midday and will continue through Wednesday, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, hail and strong wind gusts. According to meteorological forecasts, the expected flash floods could lead to closures of major traffic routes in the Negev, the Arava and the Dead Sea region.

The Meteorological Service issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms and lightning moving northeast at 20 kilometers per hour. The warning is in effect for the central and southern coastal plain, the Shfela, northern Samaria, and the northwest and west Negev. During the weather event, injuries up to life-threatening danger are possible from lightning strikes while in open areas.

Warning: Flash-Flood Danger in Southern Wadis

Significant flash floods are forecast in the wadis of the southern Negev, the Arava, the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea. Authorities are calling on the public to avoid open areas or the vicinity of tall objects during thunderstorms, and to exercise particular caution against entering wadis and flood zones.

Damage to electrical devices from high-voltage surges is also possible, along with local damage to buildings and infrastructure from lightning strikes and strong wind gusts. Given the expected conditions, the public is advised to follow weather forecasts continuously and prepare accordingly.

Nahal Hatira (Photo: Yitzhak Cohen, Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel)

Forecast: Temperatures Drop, Rain Continues

According to the forecast, Wednesday will see a slight additional drop in temperatures, mainly in the mountains and inland areas. Local rain accompanied by isolated thunderstorms is still expected, mainly in the east and south of the country. Thursday will bring another slight temperature drop, with local rain still expected in the north. Strong winds will blow in most areas.

Friday will see a further drop in temperatures, which will be below seasonal average in most areas. Local rain, mostly light, will continue to fall in the north and may occasionally reach the center as well.

Despite the disappointment of canceled hiking plans, the blessing rains bring welcome news for nature and the country's water reservoirs. Further updates will be published as they develop.