The Dead Sea and its environs have come to life. When winter rains are heavy in Israel, it means more water flows into the Jordan River. Being the major tributary of the salty reservoir known as the Dead Sea, the Jordan River's above average water volume is now being deposited there. Many river beds, dry for many years, are now rapidly moving streams. There is a surge of wildlife and blooming flowers in the area and tourists are flocking to the Dead Sea's many hotels.