Israel Faces Dry Winter with Significant Rainfall Deficit

Israel's rainfall levels this winter have been notably low, with data from the Water Authority revealing that the country has received only 60% of the expected rainfall for this season. The South of Israel has been hit hardest, recording just 30% of the average rainfall for this period, making it one of the driest winters in the past seven years.

However, not all regions are experiencing drought-like conditions. The slopes of Mount Carmel have seen an increase in precipitation, with rainfall reaching 120% of the multi-year average. The Nahal Taninim station has already recorded 540 mm of rain, surpassing the annual average for that area.

Despite these regional variations, the Kinneret area is struggling with a significant rainfall deficit. Only 50% of the annual average rainfall has been recorded in this region, while the western Galilee has seen 70% of its usual rainfall.

The water level of the Kinneret, Israel’s sole natural freshwater source, currently stands at -211.26 meters, 20 cm lower than at the same time last year. Since October, the water level has dropped by about 38 cm. However, following a minimum recorded in mid-December, there has been a slight increase of 14 cm in the water level.