Blog note. Jesus indicated that ‘fearful sights’ (various natural disasters) would occur leading up to the time known as the Tribulation and Great Tribulation (a combined seven year period of great destruction on earth). Although these types of things have occurred in the past for centuries and thousands of years, they could be identified as the ‘season of the times’ due to the ferociousness of these events. They would be occurring in greater intensity, severity, frequency, size, duration, scope … just like the pains that a woman experiences in labor the farther along she is in the labor process. We are in the ‘season of the times’ that comes just before the seven (7) year Tribulation/Great Tribulation period
… And great earthquakes shall be in diverse places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. (Luke 21:11).
… And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; (Luke 21:25)
… Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken; (Luke 21:26)
… This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (2 Timothy 3:1)
Jesus is giving a series of prophecies about what to look for as the age of grace comes to a close. These verses are several of many such prophecies from throughout the Bible. 2017 was the worst year in recorded history for the intensity, frequency, severity, duration and occurrence of a large number of severe natural disasters worldwide. Earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones, torrential flooding, unprecedented wildfires in unusual places, devastating droughts, excessive/scorching heat setting records everywhere, record snowfalls in Europe and Russia. Snow in the Arabia. This list can go on. Most studied Eschatologists believe these ‘fearful sights’ and massive natural disasters are all part of the ‘CONVERGENCE’ of signs that this Biblical and prophetic age is closing. Most people who study prophecy are familiar with the routine reference(s) made that these things will be like a woman having labor.

Sydney imposes first water restrictions in decade after crippling drought

The Telegraph•May 28, 2019

Australia’s most populous state of New South Wales on Tuesday imposed water restrictions for the first time in a decade with dam levels at just over 50 per cent due to a prolonged drought.

The country’s east coast has suffered through two years of below-average rainfall, devastating agricultural production and stoking a political debate over the impact of climate change.

With the drought showing no sign of abating, state authorities said residents can only water their lawns and gardens between 10am and 4pm.

Washing of hard surfaces such as driveways will be prohibited from June 1. New South Wales, home to about a third of Australia’s 25 million people and its biggest city Sydney, last imposed water restrictions in 2009.

New South Wales Water Minister Melinda Pavey said the latest outlook for dry, hot conditions had forced the government’s hand.

“The Bureau of Meteorology’s latest forecast is predicting below-average rainfall and higher temperatures for June to August, which are key drivers of stronger water demand,” Ms Pavey said in a statement.

Dam levels in the state now stand at just over 50 per cent, down sharply from 96 per cent in April 2017, she said.

The state has received less than 70 per cent of its typical average rainfall since May 2017, according to meteorology bureau data.

While the threat of El Nino – which is associated with dry weather across Australia’s east coast – has eased in recent weeks, the dry weather persists.

With less than 50mm of rain in May, wheat farmers in the state face a third straight year of below average production, a drain on the state’s economy.