United States — Ekhbary News Agency
Lake Powell, the second-largest human-made reservoir in the United States, has lost nearly 7% of its potential storage capacity since 1963, a new report reveals. This decline, caused by sediment accumulation from the Colorado and San Juan rivers, exacerbates the severe water loss due to an intense multiyear drought, creating a dual crisis for the Western US.
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The US Geological Survey and Bureau of Reclamation report indicates an average annual loss of approximately 33,270 acre-feet of storage capacity between 1963 and 2018. These sediments settle at the reservoir's bottom, reducing its overall volume. Currently, Lake Powell is around 25% full, a dire situation for a region already grappling with water shortages and extreme wildfires. Drought conditions are expected to persist or worsen.
Threat to Millions and Hydropower
The Colorado River system, which relies on Lake Powell, provides water for over 40 million people across seven Western states and Mexico. The reservoir's recent drop below a critical threshold of 3,525 feet above sea level has sparked concerns about water supply and the hydropower generation that millions depend on. Officials emphasize the vital importance of scientific information to address challenges from a 22-year drought and climate change.
