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A small lake whose dropping of water-level caused its length to decrease from 76km early this century to less than 50km today. Its width varies from 15 to less than 3km. Situated at about 405m below Sea level, it is the lowest place on earth. The Dead Sea is unique in the world: no life exists here because of its high salt content which is about 25% more than the average sea. The climate in the area is extremely hot in summer and the rate of evaporation is quite rapid. This, coupled with the fact that the amount of water coming in from the Jordan has lessened because much of it is being channeled into irrigation channels run of the river higher up. This has led to fears that the sea could evaporate. Plans to bring water to the Dead Sea via a canal from the Mediterranean or the Red sea are thus under consideration. The waters of the Dead Sea are helpful in treating skin diseases. Several bathing beaches along the sea shores such as Galia, Ain Fashkha, Ain Gedi, an Ain Boqeq provide showers and changing room for visitors. Ain Gedi, 55km south of Jericho is probably the most visited beach. |
