Devastating Floods Across Israel 🙏🏻
- Ron Cantor
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
This week, Israel has experienced almost unprecedented rains and snow (in the North), resulting in devastating flooding. While rain (especially in the Middle East) is considered a blessing, the torrential winter rains this week have instead brought death and destruction.
This storm has been so massive and long-lasting that it was given a name—Bryon. In the 23 years I’ve lived in Israel, this is the first “named” storm that I can recall.
In America and other parts of the world, hurricanes, cyclones, and winter storms usually get a name, but in Israel, storms typically don’t last long enough to require a designation! This is something new for us.
So far, Byron has resulted in two reported deaths and at least 100 rescues in Israel from the north to the south, but especially in the central part of the country. Roadways, homes, and even grocery stores have been under water. In Gaza, where many people are living in tent encampments, the death toll is reported at 11.
It is winter in Israel and the cold temperatures along with the downpour and flooding have made it perilous for many people. Please keep Israel, Gaza, and the region in your prayers. We always need and welcome the rain, but this has come at a high cost for many, at a time when people are already frayed at the edges.
Optimism after Mediated Conversations
Thank you so much for your prayers last week for a few mediated conversations I was involved with over the last several days. The meetings were fruitful and I am hopeful we are headed toward reconciliation.
May you have a peace-filled Shabbat and a bright start to your Hanukkah celebration on Sunday. We are so grateful for you!
Shabbat Shalom,
Dr. Ron Cantor
