Sea Of Galilee Hits Lowest Level In Century As Drought Bites
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
JERUSALEM (JTA) — The Sea of Galilee is at its lowest level in a century after northern Israel experienced the driest February ever recorded.
The Israel Water Authority said Tuesday that the large freshwater lake, also known as Lake Kinneret, is 20 centimeters below the line experts consider acceptable for water quality. The sea received only 10 percent of its average rainfall in February.
The low level affects agriculture, wildlife and the environment, according to the authority, which has nearly completely halted pumping water from the Kinneret.
The water shortage in Israel’s north is expected to get worse in the summer, according to reports.
Other areas of Israel receive water from five desalination plants that take water from the Mediterranean Sea. Residents of the Galilee area have objected to a planned desalination plant.
Southern Israel received 90 to 120 percent of its average rainfall this year.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
