Rare August Rainstorm Hits Eastern Israel, Flood Risks Continue Tomorrow

A rare and intense rain event struck eastern Israel and the Judean Mountains on August 15, with over 25 millimeters of rainfall recorded in Maale Adumim, leading to flash floods and rescue operations in East Jerusalem. Specifically, 26 millimeters fell in Maale Adumim, with 21 millimeters falling in less than an hour, causing rapid water flow in Nahal Og and multiple evacuations. Such heavy rainfall in August is extremely uncommon in the region, having occurred only three times in the past century: once in the 1920s, again about 50 years later, and most recently in August 2012 in the Golan Heights.

The unusual August rains mainly affected the eastern parts of the country, including the Golan Heights, Judean Desert, and Dead Sea area, while most other regions experienced hot and clear weather. Forecasters predict continued significant rainfall tomorrow, with a high risk of flash floods in the streams of the Judean Desert and northern and southern Dead Sea areas, especially between noon and early evening.

In response to the hazardous weather, police in the Judea and Samaria district will deploy along main roads and vulnerable areas to assist travelers and ensure public safety. Authorities urge the public to plan travel carefully, avoid flood-prone areas such as riverbeds and hiking trails, and heed warnings to prevent life-threatening situations caused by flash floods.