(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

The video shows the first snow accumulations on Mt. Hermon that fell during the night of 19 Kislev, Wednesday night to Thursday. While it is far from sufficient to permit opening the ski lodge, it brings a measure of optimism to ski operators that the winter season is approaching.

Elsewhere in the country, rainfall brought a bit of optimism too as we must continue being mispallel for rainfall following at least four drought years that have left the country in a serious situation. Earlier this week, Chief Rabbi Dovid Lau Shlita called for adding the ‘Va’aneinu’ tefilla for rainfall in Shmona Esrei.

Despite the ongoing water desalination, water experts warn if this winter does not bring significant rainfall, the consequences for the Kineret and farmers will be disastrous chas v’sholom.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)