Recently, curious red patches have emerged on the surface of the Sea of Galilee amid a sharp decline in water levels following an unusually dry winter. Israel’s Water Authority clarified that this striking hue is harmless, linked to a known form of algae. The responsible organism, Botryococcus braunii, typically presents green. Still, when exposed to intense sunlight over time, it generates a red pigment that tints the water.

Authorities stress that past summer incidents of similar red discoloration occurred without health risks. Laboratory analysis at the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) Research Laboratory found no toxic contaminants or allergic reactions, reinforcing that swimmers are not in danger. Ongoing water quality monitoring continues to safeguard both recreation and the lake’s delicate ecology.

While the explanation is firmly scientific, the vivid red waters stirred powerful spiritual associations. For many, the sight evoked the First Plague in Exodus, when the Nile was turned to blood:

“And the waters that were in the river were turned to blood.” — Exodus 7:19–20

From a Jewish prophetic perspective, the Prophet Micah foretells of wondrous signs reminiscent of the Exodus days to accompany the final redemption:

“I will show him wondrous deeds as in the days when you came out of the land of Egypt.” — Micah 7:15

Midrash Tanchuma, a classical homiletic collection, suggests that just as God unleashed the ten plagues upon Egypt, He will one day strike the enemies of Israel with equally formidable signs. Nahmanides (12th century) argued in his Torah commentary that Divine retribution in Egypt was primarily due to Pharaoh’s denial of God, beyond just the enslavement of the Israelites. Rabbi Bahya ben Asher (13th century) added that while God showed only partial power during the Exodus, He will display greater might in the ultimate redemption.

Similarly, Christians drew parallels to Revelation 16:4—the “Bowl Plagues”—where waters are described as turning to blood.

Meanwhile, the lake’s hydrology remains precarious. Official sources confirm that levels have dropped significantly this year, below the “upper red line” and not far from the “lower red line,” beyond which pumping must cease to prevent ecological harm. In response, preliminary activation of the “reverse aqueduct” (a system delivering desalinated water back into the Sea of Galilee) has taken place, and full-scale operation of this project is expected to begin in October, should dry conditions persist.