Heavy August Rain Causes Flooding and Road Closures in Jerusalem and Northern Israel

Heavy rains fell unexpectedly on a summer day in northern Israel, including the Golan Heights and Jerusalem, amid a meteorological warning for thunderstorms. In Maale Adumim, 18.4 mm of rain was recorded, with 2 mm in Jerusalem and 0.4 mm at Mount Bental in northeastern Golan. Due to flooding concerns, Highway 90 was closed for about an hour in both directions. Fire and rescue teams responded to flooding incidents in several neighborhoods in southern and eastern Jerusalem. Authorities urged the public to avoid underground parking lots, basements, and elevators during floods and to stay away from water channels and hazardous water sources.

Additionally, a complete swimming ban was imposed at Achziv Beach in the Western Galilee due to dangerous sea conditions posing life risks to swimmers. Weather forecasts for the following day predict little temperature change but possible localized rain in eastern Israel from the afternoon, with flood risks in eastern riverbeds, northern Arava, and northeastern Negev.