Colorado River Basin faces deepening drought
Snowpack in the Colorado River Basin is far below normal, with major reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell at low levels heading into spring 2026.
Snowpack in the Colorado River Basin is far below normal, with major reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell at low levels heading into spring 2026.
Federal projections show Lake Powell runoff at just 52% of average, raising concerns about power generation and reservoir levels in 2026.
A new congressional report shows the Colorado River’s century-old rules struggling under severe drought, shrinking supplies, and rising competition for water.
Seven states face a November 11 deadline to agree on Colorado River management or risk federal intervention and basin-wide water cuts.
Colorado River use continues to exceed supply, leaving Lakes Powell and Mead near critical thresholds. Experts warn urgent cuts are needed.
Lake Mead and Lake Powell show small increases in water levels, but Colorado River system storage remains below average as cautious forecasts continue.