Unseasonable summer rain and flooding hit parts of Israel

In an unusual summer weather event, rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning swept across parts of Israel on Saturday, affecting Jerusalem, Maaleh Adumim, and the northern Golan Heights. According to official records, 18.4 mm of rain fell in Maaleh Adumim, while Jerusalem received 2 mm and Mount Bental in the northern Golan recorded 0.4 mm. The rainfall caused flooding in several neighborhoods in eastern and southern Jerusalem, prompting Fire and Rescue Service teams to assist individuals trapped in flooded areas. Authorities urged the public to avoid underground parking garages and elevators during the flooding. Additionally, Route 90 was closed in both directions for approximately one hour due to concerns over flash floods. The Israel Meteorological Service had previously issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms across regions ranging from the northern mountains to the Judean Desert and the Negev. Due to hazardous sea conditions, swimming was also prohibited at Achziv Beach in the Western Galilee. Localized rainfall is expected to continue on Sunday afternoon, with ongoing concerns regarding flash floods in the streams of the Judean Desert and the Negev.