Israel's North and South Revitalized by Post-Storm Floods
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Recent rains have brought life back to Israel's northern and southern landscapes after a dry year. In the north, the Golan Heights and Hermon regions are experiencing revitalized streams and waterfalls, with unique water color convergences at Banias and the emergence of rare salamanders. In the south, desert streams have filled with deep pools, attracting wildlife and offering new hiking opportunities in areas like the Merzava and Masor streams. Authorities are cautioning hikers about slippery conditions in the north and the dangers of flash floods in the south, urging adherence to safety guidelines.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Recent rains have revitalized northern Israel's streams and waterfalls, creating unique natural phenomena.
- Rare salamanders have emerged in Tel Dan and Banias following the much-needed rainfall.
- Hikers are advised to exercise caution due to slippery conditions in the Golan Heights after the storm.
- Southern Israel's desert streams have transformed into pools, attracting wildlife and offering new hiking routes.
- Experienced hiker Nir Finkelstein described the desert's post-flood transformation as "supreme happiness."
- Authorities warn of flash flood dangers in desert streams and advise checking weather forecasts before hiking.
Following a year of drought, recent rains have revitalized northern Israel's streams and waterfalls, particularly in the Golan Heights and Hermon regions. At Banias Nature Reserve, a striking phenomenon occurred where the muddy floodwaters of the Gevata stream, draining from Mount Hermon, merged with the clear waters of the Banias river, creating a distinct visual divide. "You can really see half and half, and it's totally cool," said Naama Mansfeld, Director of the Golan Education and Information Center at the Nature and Parks Authority, describing the unique confluence. She noted that the heavier, darker floodwaters, carrying organic material and sand, mix with the cleaner river water below the Roman bridge, creating a "stunning sight." The rains also brought out rare salamanders in Tel Dan and Banias, emerging from the damp earth to forage and mate. Mansfeld recommended visiting streams like Sa'ar, Banias, Gevata, and Hazori, but cautioned hikers about the slippery mud in the Golan, urging them to stay on marked trails and check the Nature and Parks Authority website for safety updates. She also advised wearing sturdy, ankle-supporting footwear.
In southern Israel, the floods have dramatically transformed the desert landscape, filling dry riverbeds with deep pools and creating a haven for hikers. Nir Finkelstein, a resident of Lahavim, embarked on a 16-kilometer trek through the Merzava stream in the northern Arava, encountering herds of wild gazelles and swimming in the newly formed pools. Finkelstein described the experience as "supreme happiness," noting that the large floods occurred on election day, with recent weekend rains adding more water. He observed that Ein Yer'am, an area usually holding water, was overflowing beyond anything he had seen before. His trek through Merzava involved navigating canyons and pools, some deep enough for swimming. He also reported seeing approximately 50 gazelles, ibexes, and rare birds. Finkelstein discovered a hidden, narrow crevice within the canyon walls, filled with vibrantly colored rocks. Despite the risks of hiking alone, he values the solitude for his photography and contemplation. He reached Ein Om Tzalach, a large pool that retains water long after the floods. The water was cool, and he noted that while a vehicle track leads near the pool, a short hike is still required. The following day, he and his partner explored the Masor stream in the northern Arava, walking through a narrow gorge with white walls and wading through pools, one of which was at least 1.5 meters deep. They also observed Negev gazelles, bee-eaters, and sandgrouse. Finkelstein emphasized the importance of checking weather forecasts and flood warnings before venturing into desert streams, as flash floods can occur even without rain in the immediate area, and swimming in murky, deep pools can be dangerous.