Having watched the rise and fall of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Kinneret) over a period of 45 years, it is exciting to learn that winter storms have pushed the lake to the sharpest December rise in 20 years.
According to an article in Haaretz the lake “is expected to have risen 26 centimeters [9.84″] since heavy rains began Thursday, it sharpest December rise in 20 years. [1991 and 1992]”
As a result of the increased flow in northern streams, the Kinneret’s water level rose sharply, reaching 212.07 meters [695.77 feet] below sea level Saturday morning.
Boat on the Sea of Galilee near the Plain of Gennesaret. Photo by Ferrell Jenkins.
And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:34 ESV)
Rain also fell as far south as Ashdod and Kiryat Gat, “but failed to affect the Negev this time.” This reminds us of the days of the Patriarchs whose lives were often disrupted by lack of rain in the Negev.
According to the report, almost 20 inches of snow has fallen on Mount Hermon.
If you have an interest in weather conditions in Israel, I suggest Kinneret Bot and the site of the Israel Meterological Service.
Geographer Carl Rasmussen says,
All of us who have traveled in Israel and the surrounding countries are well-aware of the importance of the winter rains for the well-being of the inhabitants of the area, local agriculture, and the water supply in general.
Ferrell's Travel Blog 
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