US's two largest reservoirs hit record-low water levels

Lake Mead and Lake Powell, which together supply water to 40 million people across the Southwest, have fallen to historic lows, raising concerns about hydroelectric generation and water scarcity in the region.

First covered Aug 17, 2026 · 9:08 AM PT · 1 article

US's two largest reservoirs hit record-low water levels — Image via carbonbrief.org

Coverage

7h Carbon Brief Analysis: The two largest reservoirs in the US have hit record-low levels — The second-largest reservoir in the US reached a record-low water height on Saturday – just days after the country’s largest… The post Analysis: The two…

Primary sources

pubs.usgs.gov Pp1894D (pubs.usgs.gov)

usbr.gov Final Environmental Impact Statement | Bureau of Reclamation

More coverage from around the web

abcnews.com Lake Mead, Lake Powell nearing record low levels, data shows - ABC News

pbs.org Lake Powell hits record low, threatening key water and electricity supply for millions | PBS News

cnn.com Historically low water level in two crucial US reservoirs threatens water and power for millions | CNN

usnews.com What to Know: Combined Water Levels in Lake Mead, Lake Powell at Record Low | National News | U.S. News

time.com The U.S.’s Largest Reservoir Just Fell to Its Lowest Water Level

Appeared in: 2026-08-17 (#6)

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