Israel Braces for Stormy Weather, Flash Floods Expected

The Israel Meteorological Service has issued a warning for severe weather expected to hit the country starting Tuesday afternoon. A system dubbed "Afikim Sof" will bring increased humidity to the southern regions, leading to heavy rainfall that could cause flash floods. The precipitation is forecast to begin in the southern Negev and spread rapidly across southern areas, including the Negev Mountains, Arava, and the Dead Sea region. Some locations may experience intense, intermittent downpours, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Authorities are concerned about the potential for flash floods in wadis (riverbeds) and are urging the public to stay updated on forecasts and warnings. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and avoid routes prone to flooding. The Meteorological Service emphasized the danger of approaching wadis during flood warnings, even if rain is not falling directly overhead, and stressed the importance of heeding official instructions. The system is expected to impact southern areas from Tuesday afternoon into the evening, with potential for rain to spread to other regions throughout the day.