A Rainy Month

January 17, 2018

by: Janet Aslin

Wednesday, 17 January 2018 | While December was a dry month in Israel, January began with a significant amount of moisture falling in the northern, coastal and central areas of Israel. Over the period from January 3rd through January 6th, the level of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) rose 7 centimeters (2.75 in). During the two weeks since the initial January storm, rain has continued intermittently. As of the writing of this article, Jerusalem has received 140 millimeters (5.5 in), Haifa 204 millimeters (8.0 in) and Mitzpe Harashim, a community in the north which is also known as “the wettest place in Israel,” has received 271 millimeters (10.7 in).

While these rain storms are certainly something to give thanks for, the water situation in Israel is still in crisis. The water levels in the Kinneret are an indication that many here in Israel use to determine the health, or lack thereof, of Israel’s water supply. In early December the water level was a mere 5 centimeters (2 in) above the black line, the level below the pipes which are used to take water out of the lake. As a result of the rains, primarily in January, the water level of the Kinneret is now 0.63 meters (2.06 ft) above the black line. This is a move in the right direction, but the Kinneret is still 1.24 meters (4.07 ft) below the lower red line, the point at which the ecological balance is damaged and water quality begins to be compromised.

Until the rain began to fall in January, this winter had been Israel’s driest on record in 18 years. This week we have seen several gentle rainfalls in Jerusalem. Beginning Sunday evening through Monday morning we received 16 mm (0.62 in) and for this we do give thanks. However, we also continue to pray that abundant rains will fall during the remainder of the rainy season.

Posted on January 17, 2018

Source: (Bridges for Peace, 17 January 2018)

Photo Credit: Michael Gaida/pixabay.com