Second, Israel experiences two basic weather patterns during the year: hot and dry (summer) and cool and wet (winter). Further, when this warm, humid air is impacted by the cooler dry air that comes rushing down the valleys from either side (especially from Trans-Jordan), it produces virtually instant turmoil on the sea’s surface. Because the surface of the lake is below sea level, the water and air at its surface are warm year-round. ![]() First, since the Sea of Galilee sits in a bowl-like configuration, it is dramatically affected by the sudden changes in wind and atmospheric conditions. There are two primary reasons why these storms occur. The New Testament tells of several incidents when Jesus and His disciples were caught up in storms on the sea. The valleys and depression that surround and empty into the Sea create some breathtaking scenes, but they are also the topographical cause of its stormy weather. On the eastern side is the western edge of the Golan Heights, spilling softly into the Sea of Galilee. On the western side of the sea is a natural east/west depression that divides the hills of Upper and Lower Galilee. Its outlet is at the southern tip, reestablishing the flow of the Jordan River as it continues its winding path south to the Dead Sea. Its major source of water is the Jordan River flowing into it from the north. ![]() It was a magnificent sight! That was 15 years ago, but that view of the Sea of Galilee has had a lasting impact.Īs mentioned in the previous article, the Sea of Galilee sits in a geological bowl surrounded by hills and mountains almost all the way around. I strained my neck to keep it in view as long as possible while the bus wound its way through the undulating countryside. ![]() It shone like a brilliant sapphire against the dark shadow of the Trans-Jordan plateau. Our elevation and distance were such that I could cover the visible surface with the palm of my hand. We were coming down from Upper Galilee on a north-south course parallel to the sea’s western shore. My first glimpse of the Sea of Galilee came as the early-morning winter sun kissed the surface in a brilliant, shimmering display.
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