The number of rockets fired at southern Israel now stands at more than 130, forcing cities in the region to take drastic measures:

The southern Israeli cities of Ashdod and Beersheba fell under a barrage of rockets Saturday evening as the second day of violence between Israel and the Gaza Strip – the worst in a year – continued.

Alarms and explosions were heard in Ashdod and Beersheba early Saturday evening, resulting in a decision by both cities’ municipalities to keep schools closed on Sunday. As of Saturday night, schools were to remain closed in Beersheba, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Netivot, Kiryat Gat, Ofakim, Beer Tuvia, Yavne and Gedera.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to fight back. Again, keep your eye on the IDF’s blog for real-time updates from the front.