Southern Israel Roads Closed Due to Flooding, Police Urge Caution
Translated & summarized from Hamal by baba
Israeli police have closed several major roads in the southern Arava and Negev regions due to severe flooding and stormy weather, with dozens of rescue operations conducted yesterday. Route 90 is closed between Lido and Arava Junctions, and Route 40 is shut between Mitzpe Ramon and Tze'elim Junction. Police are urging the public to avoid flooded areas and heed safety instructions as they continue to assess road conditions for reopening.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Police closed major roads in southern Israel due to severe flooding and stormy weather.
- Route 90 is closed between Lido Junction and Arava Junction.
- Route 40 is closed between Mitzpe Ramon and Tze'elim Junction.
- Dozens of rescue operations were conducted yesterday in the Negev and Arava.
- Police urge the public to avoid flooded areas and follow safety guidelines.
Police forces in Israel's Southern District, along with units from the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea region, are continuing operations on major roadways due to severe flooding and stormy weather. Yesterday, officers and volunteer rescue teams handled dozens of rescue incidents across the Negev and Arava regions caused by the downpours.
Ongoing situation assessments are being conducted by the Southern District command to ensure the safe reopening of roads while prioritizing public safety. Several key roads remain affected. Route 90 is closed to traffic between the Lido Junction and Arava Junction. However, passage is permitted for residents of Kallia only, upon presentation of identification, on the segment between Lido Junction and Kallia Junction.
Route 40 is closed between Mitzpe Ramon and Tze'elim Junction. The Tze'elim Bridge on Route 234 is also impassable. In contrast, Routes 507 and 508 have been reopened.
Authorities remind the public that Route 90 between Arava Junction and Eilat was reopened yesterday in both directions. Police are actively patrolling the affected areas, conducting checks, and directing traffic according to road conditions.
Israel Police is urging the public to drive responsibly and adhere to safety guidelines, including avoiding blocked roads and flooded areas, refraining from crossing flowing streams or flooded roads, and not entering wadis or hiking trails prone to flash floods. Drivers are advised to adjust speed to road conditions, maintain distance, and follow police instructions. In any emergency, the public should call police emergency services at 100. The police will continue to monitor the situation and update the public on traffic arrangements and road openings.
