Severe Weather Causes Fatalities and Flooding Across Israel

A series of winter storms have recently swept across Israel, resulting in significant rainfall, flooding, and tragic fatalities. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) reported that approximately 70,000 Israelis ventured into nature reserves and parks during this period, despite warnings of hazardous conditions. The storms have led to the closure of several parks, including the Hermon-Banias Nature Reserve, Nachal Ayon Nature Reserve, Caesarea National Park, Tel Afek National Park, and Ashkelon National Park, due to the risk of flooding.

The Jerusalem Report

The INPA has cautioned against entering flowing streams and rivers, as water levels have risen dangerously high. Flash flooding has been particularly concerning in the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea area, prompting authorities to advise the public to stay away from streambanks, which may collapse under the pressure of floodwaters.

The Jerusalem Report

The severe weather has resulted in the deaths of two individuals. A woman in her 50s died after being struck by a heavy object during flooding in the Shuafat refugee camp in eastern Jerusalem. Additionally, a 17-year-old boy, Moshe Ludmir from Beitar Illit, drowned after being swept away by floodwaters in the Nahal Modi'in stream. His body was recovered after a three-day search. The storms have also caused injuries, including a critical injury to a woman who was found unconscious and later pronounced dead at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center.

The Jerusalem Report

Rainfall has varied significantly across the country, with Majdal Shams in the northern Golan Heights receiving about 60 millimeters, while Jerusalem recorded 41 millimeters. Other areas, such as Haifa and Tel Aviv, received 27 and 22 millimeters, respectively. The Israel Meteorological Service has indicated that a new weather system is expected to bring additional rain starting Saturday night, with forecasts predicting heavy rainfall and a drop in temperatures across central and northern Israel.

The Jerusalem ReportYnetNews

The INPA has emphasized the importance of checking their information center before embarking on hiking trips, advising the public to utilize their website or hotline for updates on park conditions and safety measures. The authority's warnings reflect the ongoing risks posed by the severe weather, which has already resulted in loss of life and significant property damage.

The Jerusalem Report

Despite the warnings, many Israelis chose to visit national parks during the stormy weather, raising concerns among safety officials about public compliance with advisories. Critics argue that the allure of nature and outdoor activities may overshadow the potential dangers posed by severe weather conditions.

YnetNews

While the INPA has reported closures and risks associated with flooding, there are discrepancies in the exact rainfall totals and the extent of flooding across different regions. Some reports suggest that while the rainfall was significant, it did not reach the levels of previous storms, leading to varying assessments of the flood risks.

The Jerusalem Report

“Authorities warn of potential flash floods and strong water flows in the Sorek and Lachish streams and their tributaries.” — Israel Meteorological Service

YnetNews