Severe weather tests Israel’s infrastructure, yet disciplined emergency systems protect lives despite escalating climatic threats.
Israel was struck Monday by the season’s second major winter storm, unleashing widespread flooding, fallen trees, and severe traffic disruptions across multiple regions. Despite the intensity of the weather, Israel’s emergency and rescue agencies once again demonstrated operational readiness, coordination, and commitment to saving lives.
Major highways were temporarily closed due to flooding, including Route 234 near the Tze’elim Bridge, Route 227 at Ma’aleh Akravim, and Route 4 near the Holon Interchange, where traffic was reduced to a single lane. Route 90 near the Dead Sea was partially reopened, though access to Ne’ot Hakikar remains closed as water levels stay dangerous.
At the Megiddo Junction, a dramatic rescue unfolded when a 4×4 vehicle was swept into an overflowing stream. Four passengers climbed onto the vehicle’s roof and were safely evacuated by firefighters using specialized ladders. In Herzliya, a separate incident saw a large tree collapse onto a moving vehicle on Ha’atzmaut Street.
Teams from Magen David Adom examined the driver, who miraculously escaped injury. Senior paramedic Nir Kaiser described the scene as ending “miraculously,” underscoring how preparedness and rapid response prevented tragedy.
Meanwhile, Israel Police managed heavy congestion in Bnei Brak after traffic lights malfunctioned at the Jabotinsky–Abuhatzera–Sokolov intersection. Officers directed traffic on-site and urged drivers to remain patient and use alternative routes.
The Fire and Rescue Service warned the public to avoid streams and flooded crossings entirely, stressing that even shallow-looking currents pose immediate life-threatening risks.
Meteorologists forecast easing rain by Monday evening, followed by another powerful system expected late Wednesday night into Thursday, bringing thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall from northern Israel to the northern Negev. A prolonged dry spell is expected over the weekend.
