{
  "id": 19754990,
  "title": "Floods, Eilat earthquake should push Israel’s next government to fix risks it knows - editorial",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/13/floods-eilat-earthquake-should-push-israels-next-government-to-fix",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-13T04:28:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-914764"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The recent flooding and earthquake near Eilat should prompt Israel's incoming government to address the risks they know exist. The Israel Meteorological Service recorded an extraordinary 117 mm of rain in just 80 to 85 minutes during the weekend floods. Meanwhile, earthquake alerts were issued in the area, leading to temporary suspensions of flights at Ramon Airport for safety checks. While these events were distinct and required different responses, they both highlight the need for continued investment in infrastructure that can withstand emergencies.\n\nThe State Comptroller's reports shed light on the ongoing issues surrounding flood preparedness and earthquake preparedness. In a recent follow-up audit, it was found that drainage infrastructure in several communities, such as Ashkelon, Nahariya, and Jisr e-Zarka, still lacked the capacity to handle updated rainfall and flow scenarios. Additionally, authorities were lacking multiyear investment plans.\n\nFurther investigation revealed that over 1,100 buildings in areas near the earthquake fault line had not been reinforced, with 1,124 out of 1,208 identified buildings failing to receive necessary reinforcement. Schools in the region were also identified as needing attention, with 38 out of 54 schools still requiring work.\n\nThe incoming government should prioritize the projects already identified, with clear funding and responsibility, and provide regular public updates on progress. It is crucial for residents to know which schools are awaiting reinforcement, when work is scheduled, and who is responsible for any delays. This information should be readily available before an alert sends parents searching for answers.\n\nRecognizing that floods and earthquakes are risks that arise without warning, the government must dedicate sustained attention to addressing these dangers. Flood protection and building reinforcement require ongoing dedication, even when there are no emergencies on television. By ensuring that known risks are addressed before they impact homes and lives, Israel can become a country that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.",
  "summary": "Years after the state comptroller flagged weak drainage and unreinforced buildings near the fault line, much of the work remains undone.",
  "key_points": [
    "117 mm of rain fell in 80-85 minutes during weekend floods",
    "Earthquake alerts issued, causing Ramon Airport suspensions",
    "Over 1,100 buildings near fault line not reinforced"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Addressing these documented infrastructure failures and reinforcement gaps moves Israel from reactive emergency management toward a proactive model of citizen safety and long-term national resilience.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}