Dead sea floating

The Dead Sea, straddling Israel and Jordan, is renowned for its extreme salinity that allows people to float effortlessly on its surface.

About this subject

The Dead Sea is a salt lake bordered by Israel and Jordan in the Jordan Rift Valley. With a salinity of approximately 34.2% (nearly 10 times that of the ocean), it ranks among the saltiest bodies of water on Earth. This extreme concentration of salts, notably magnesium, calcium, and potassium chlorides, gives the water a density higher than the human body, enabling effortless floating.

The Dead Sea basin is also the lowest exposed point on Earth, at about 430 meters below sea level. This unique geography, combined with high atmospheric pressure and mineral-rich water, has made it a global destination for health tourism. The black mud from the seabed is used in treatments for skin conditions and arthritis, and the water itself is believed to alleviate psoriasis and other ailments.

However, the Dead Sea faces severe environmental threats. Since the 1960s, its water level has dropped by roughly one meter per year, primarily due to diversion of the Jordan River for irrigation and mineral extraction through evaporation ponds. The southern basin has nearly vanished, and sinkholes have appeared along the shoreline. Proposals like the Red Sea, Dead Sea Water Conveyance aim to stabilize the lake, but progress remains slow due to regional tensions and funding issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it so easy to float in the Dead Sea?

The high salinity (about 34.2%) makes the water very dense. Since the human body is less dense, floating occurs naturally, almost like a life buoy.

Is the Dead Sea actually dying?

Yes, the water level has been dropping rapidly since the 1960s. Diversion of the Jordan River and mineral extraction are causing the sea to shrink annually.

What precautions should I take when visiting the Dead Sea?

Avoid diving or getting water in your eyes, as the salinity burns. Don't stay in the water too long, and rinse off with fresh water afterward to prevent skin irritation.