Israeli army units, aided by helicopters, rescued some 500 Bedouin tribesmen endangered by flash floods in northern Sinai yesterday. The massive rescue operation was mounted as torrents of water accumulated from heavy rains, roared through the E1 Arish region destroying everything in its path.
The wall of water was described as being hundreds of yards wide and at least four yards high as it over-ran the banks of the Wadi Arish, a dry river bed. Similar torrents, created by unprecedented rain storms in Sinal and the Negev, stranded tourist buses and private vehicles on roads between Eilat and Sharm el-Sheikh. All persons were brought out safely by helicopters and heavy army vehicles.
But at least 10 Bedouins are believed to have died in the floods. Two bodies were spotted today being carried by swift currents to the Mediterranean Sea. The Bedouins and their livestock took refuge in hilly regions as the waters inundated their camp sites. Army rescue teams landed by helicopters had to coax the frightened nomads to slip rubber tires under their arms so that they could be lifted into the hovering aircraft.
About 500 Bedouins were brought to hospitals and schools in E1 Arish township where they were given first aid and hot food. Military government officials operated kitchens and nurseries and the Red Cross sent 2000 blankets for the rescued Bedouins. The rains ended today but many lowering areas remained under water. A large number of livestock is presumed to have been lost in the floods.
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