Flash Floods Cause Road Collapse Near Dead Sea, Disrupt Southern Israel

A large rock, carried by floodwaters overnight along the Tzin stream, caused a section of Road 2499, the access road to Neot HaKikar, to collapse on Wednesday. The moshavim (cooperative agricultural communities) of Neot HaKikar and Ein Tamar were closed off due to the incident. Significant water flow was also reported in the Arava stream. Reports indicate that several roads in Eilat were blocked as well, following the flash floods that affected the region. On Tuesday, a weather system brought rain and water flow to streams in the Negev desert, including Hatira stream and the area of Mamsit stream and Ma'ale Mamsit. The Meteorological Service had issued warnings about the danger of flash floods in streams across the Negev, Arava, Judean Desert, and the Dead Sea region. The service cautioned that in desert streams, rainfall far from hikers' locations can trigger sudden and powerful water surges. The Nature and Parks Authority and rescue units warned the public against entering stream beds during flow, whether on foot or by vehicle, and advised staying away from stream banks. Those wishing to observe the floods are urged to do so only from safe vantage points, far from the flow channels. Travelers are advised to check for updates on directives and road closures before heading to the area.