Many residents are leaving Eilat and Arava settlements due to concerns about floods in southern Israel. Heavy traffic has been reported on Highway 90 northbound from Ovot City to Arava Junction. Highway 40 was closed earlier from Mitzpe Ramon southward, and roads leading to Eilat and Arava settlements may be blocked from noon until night. Heavy rain is already falling in Eilat, and Dr. Amir Givati from the Meteorological Service reported that flash floods are expected in the coming hours "in the Eilat area, the Negev and up to the northern Arava. The public is requested not to approach stream channels due to serious concerns about flash floods in these areas."