International News

Lake Mead Water Level

August 13 , 2026 16 hrs 0 min 24 0

Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, reached its lowest-ever water level at about 1,040.3 feet (317.1 m) above sea level.
Lake Mead is formed by the Hoover Dam on the Arizona–Nevada border and is a major water source for the American Southwest.
The low level is linked to overuse of the Colorado River, rising temperatures and prolonged drought.
Seven U.S. states, Native American tribes and two Mexican states depend on the Colorado River Basin for water, agriculture, industry and hydropower.
Lake Mead is approaching the 1,035-foot operational threshold, below which some Hoover Dam turbines may shut down, and power generation capacity could fall sharply.
The Colorado River Basin is also facing low levels at Lake Powell, increasing pressure on regional water supplies.