Lake Mead hits historic low water level as Colorado River struggles
Summary
Lake Mead has fallen to its lowest water level since being filled about 90 years ago, signaling a severe Colorado River drought crisis. At 1,040.4 feet above sea level, the level is just below the 2022 record, with roughly 30 million people across seven states affected by water risks. The piece highlights drought, reduced snowpack, and long-term overuse, and notes a federal proposal for cuts among Lower Basin states to avert a broader crisis.