The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret or Lake Tiberias, is a freshwater lake located in northern Israel. It is a geographically and ecologically significant body of water, historically serving as Israel’s primary reservoir for drinking water and irrigation. Situated within the Jordan Rift Valley, a deep geological depression, its depth is defined by its maximum capacity, fluctuating average, and unique physical environment.
Maximum and Average Depth Measurements
The maximum recorded depth of the Sea of Galilee is approximately 43 to 45 meters (141 to 148 feet), found in the northeastern part of the lake. This measurement represents the deepest point of the lakebed when the water level is near its maximum capacity. The typical average depth, however, is significantly shallower, usually around 25 to 26 meters (82 to 85 feet) across the entire body of water.
The water level fluctuates substantially based on seasonal rainfall and human water usage. Levels are monitored and measured in meters below sea level, with a system of “Red Lines” defining critical thresholds. The “Lower Red Line,” for instance, restricts water pumping to protect the lake’s ecological balance and prevent irreversible damage. High evaporation rates during the summer months also contribute to these yearly variations.
Unique Geographic Setting and Dimensions
The Sea of Galilee is recognized as the lowest freshwater lake on Earth, with its surface situated far below mean sea level. The surface elevation typically ranges from about 209 to 215 meters (686 to 705 feet) below sea level, depending on the current water volume.
The lake has a surface area of approximately 166 square kilometers (64 square miles) when full. It extends about 21 kilometers (13 miles) from north to south and 13 kilometers (8 miles) at its widest point. The total water volume is roughly 4 cubic kilometers, a figure that is constantly managed due to its importance as a regional water supply.
Geological Origins and Water Supply
The deep basin containing the Sea of Galilee formed within the Jordan Rift Valley due to active geological processes. This valley is part of the Great Rift Valley system, a massive tectonic boundary where the African and Arabian plates are slowly moving apart. This movement created the deep, sunken depression, explaining why the lake’s surface lies far below sea level.
The lake is primarily fed by the Upper Jordan River, which flows into it from the north, supplemented by various underground springs and local runoff. The primary output is the Lower Jordan River, which flows southward toward the Dead Sea, with the flow regulated by the Degania Dam. A significant amount of water is also drawn out via the National Water Carrier, a network that transports water to population centers further south in Israel.