Rains sweep Israel, curtailing drought fears

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The showers turned heavier Tuesday, turning to snow on Mount Hermon as temperatures continued to plummet from recent unseasonable highs.

Flooding was reported in the Haifa's downtown and at its southern end. Israel's weather bureau said there would a risk of flooding in other low-lying areas.

The rain swept inland and brought welcome relief to farmers who have been forced to irrigate due to the lack of rain.

Water experts were also hoping that the rains would raise the depleted water levels in Lake Kinneret and the underground reservoirs.