Recent rain and flooding in California could soon be overshadowed by fears of drought in the Western United States as the dry season begins. Despite this year’s storms, experts worry that the looming drought concerns will persist in the entire southwestern region. Of particular worry are the huge reservoirs of Lakes Mead and Powell in the Colorado River basin, which are currently well below their capacity.
Colorado State climatologist Russ Schumacher expressed concern about the low levels of Lakes Mead and Powell, attributing this to the warm, dry conditions of recent decades exacerbated by climate change, as well as the high demand for water in the region.
Currently, Lakes Mead and Powell, crucial water sources for 40 million Americans, are only filled to about 35% of their capacity, as noted by climatologist Brian Fuchs from the National Drought Mitigation Center. While there has been a slight improvement compared to record lows a few years ago, the reservoirs are still operating at only half of their average levels over the past 40 years.
Although recent storms in California have provided some relief, the situation remains critical. Schumacher highlighted the importance of mountain snowpack in the Upper Colorado River basin for water supply, emphasizing that much of the Colorado River’s water originates from this source.
Despite the recent boost in snowpack, the Lower Colorado River basin still faces severe snow drought conditions. Record dryness has led to below-average snowpack levels, with the U.S. Drought Monitor indicating moderate to extreme drought across much of the Colorado River basin.
Looking ahead, forecasts predict only 70% of the average flow into Lake Powell this spring and summer, with a continuation of warm and dry conditions expected. Unless significant changes occur, it is likely that the region will experience another year of very low flows on the Colorado River, further exacerbating the water crisis in the West.
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