The Red Sea is a body of water separating the continents of Asia and Africa which feeds into the Indian Ocean. Six nations have coastlines on the Red Sea: Djibouti, Eritrea, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
Brief History
Geologists believe that the Red Sea formed less than 45 million years ago as a result of the same tectonic forces which created the Rift Valley in East Africa. In the Book of Exodus, Moses, in leading the Jews out of bondage in Egypt, is said to have parted the Red Sea to offer a means of escape from the pursuing Egyptians. In the past century and a half, after the completion of the Suez Canal in 1869, the Sea became a vital trade and shipping route between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Climate
The Red Sea is subject, at certain points in the year, to intense winds and dust storms which can make travel hazardous. The Sea is largely surrounded by desert, and the climate is typically dry and hot with little rainfall. The lack of rainfall contributes to the high salinity of the Sea.
Featured Video
Red Sea Travel
- GoRedSea.com: Beaches in the Red Sea
References
Fast Facts
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1398 miles long and 190 miles wide
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Average depth
1,607 feet
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Maximum depth
7,254 feet
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One of the more saline bodies of water at 3.8%
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Major travel route for shipping between Indian Ocean and Mediterranean Sea through Suez Canal
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It is direct translation of the greek Erythra Thalassa
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Favored for Roman trade with India starting with the reign of Augustus , when the Roman Empire gained control over the Mediterranean, Egypt, and the northern Red Sea
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During medieval times the Red Sea was an important part of the Spice trade route
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The Red Sea lies between arid land, desert and semi-desert
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Climates
Northeasterly Monsoon and Southwesterly Monsoon
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Fact:
It is associated with the Biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites out of EgyptHow Stuff Works: History
