More Evidence of California's Extreme Weather Trend
New research shows the risk of hazardous weather is increasing in the Southwest U.S. More hot, dry winds, less rainfall and greater numbers of winter wildfires are the result.
The Great Shrinking Lake
In summer 2022, water levels in the Great Salt Lake dropped to new record lows. Increased water diversions and climate change are responsible.
Building Resilience as The Colorado River Dwindles
Policymakers, industry and conservation players, and tribal members explore paths to a sustainable future for the millions who rely on the “lifeblood of the American West.”
Tracking Deluge And Drought Through Soil Moisture
The changing state of U.S. soils has big implications for farmers and crop production. Our Crop-CASMA soil moisture tool shows how soil has changed over the past year in the U.S. from soaked to dry.
Nasa Images Show a Withering Lake Mead
Water in Lake Mead - the U.S.' largest reservoir - is at its lowest level since 1937 when the reservoir was filled for the first time. At just 27% capacity, NASA images offer a stark illustration of climate change and a long-term drought that may be the worst in the U.S. West in 12 centuries.
Rare ‘Triple’ La Niña Climate Event Looks Likely
La Niña may be sticking around, unusually, for a third year running. This ‘triple dip’ event — lasting three years in a row — has happened only twice since 1950. It could mean more drought in the southern U.S. and become more regular as the planet warms.
U.S. Megadrought is Worst For Over 1,000 Years
Vast swathes of the western U.S. are currently being affected by a megadrought, which started in 2000 and is almost in its 23rd year. Recent research suggests this ranks as the driest 22-year period in southwestern North America since at least 800 C.E.
California’s Largest Reservoirs Are Critically Low
Images from Lake Oroville and Lake Shasta compiled by the state show ‘a shocking drop in water levels’ compared to years past. California, like much of the U.S. West can expect a searing, dry summer ahead.
California Expands Drought Emergency to Large Swath of State
After one of the warmest, driest springs on record, most of the American west is in extensive drought. Amid acute water shortages in northern and central California, a drought emergency has been expanded to a large swath of the state.
Using Floodwater to Weather Droughts
Floodwaters aren't what most would consider a blessing. But they could help remedy California’s increasingly parched groundwater systems, according to a new study.