Sarah Noy Fogel. Killed in flood
Alex Hochman lightly injured
Photo: Shalom Stockelman, Ein Yahav
Negev floods claim additional life
Body found in Negev identified as Yoram Hochman, who disappeared after trying to cross Arava River
Search and rescue volunteers discovered a body while searching Tuesday morning for Yoram Hochman, who went missing Monday in the Negev floods. The body was later positively identified, and his family was notified.
The body was found in a branch of the Arava River three kilometers north of Ein Yahav, and an IDF helicopter cleared the remains from the area.
Ongoing Efforts
Ilana Curiel
Helicopter succeeds in rescuing four people trapped in truck due to floods. Rescuers cut electricity line, power lost in Arava. Earlier: One killed when jeep swept away, one missing. Search called off as darkness falls
The search for Hochman was renewed Tuesday after Monday's efforts proved fruitless. Commander of the Arava rescue unit, Elad Seker, told Ynet, "We began with a regular search, using vehicles and a police helicopter. A large number of volunteers arrived. The weather today is comfortable, the river is flowing calmly, and conditions are in our favor."
Around 100 volunteers assisted 80 police officers and IDF soldiers in the search. Engineer Corps soldiers also worked with the forces because the flood had unearthed mines planted in the desert.
"The water is muddy and cloudy, and contains mines, and there was a danger that the bank would collapse," Seker said. "The rescue was coordinated with the Jordanian army because the search also took place in their territory."
Commander Yohanan Danino, who heads the police's southern district, called on civilians to use caution when traveling in a storm.
"We are not telling you not to come see the floods. Come and act according to guidelines. You can watch the floods from a safe place. When you come to the area don't take needless risks," he said.
