Lake Mead Water Levels Projected to Sharply Drop as Lake Powell Benefits
Summary
New government forecasts show that the water level in Lake Mead could drop about 40 feet over the next two years, while Lake Powell’s water level may rise by a similar amount. This change happens as water is released from Lake Powell to supply Lake Mead and manage the Colorado River system that supports several U.S. states and parts of Mexico.Key Facts
- The Bureau of Reclamation’s study projects Lake Mead’s water level to fall to around 1,007 feet by July 2027, then fluctuate through 2028.
- Lake Powell’s water level is projected to rise to about 3,542 feet in June 2027, with changes continuing into 2028.
- Both lakes hit record low levels in August due to a very low snowpack in the Colorado River Basin during winter 2025-2026.
- The Colorado River provides water for seven U.S. states and parts of Mexico, supporting cities, farms, wildlife, and hydropower.
- In April 2026, the Bureau of Reclamation took actions to protect Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam to avoid operational problems and power generation issues.
- Measures included releasing water from Flaming Gorge Reservoir and reducing the water released from Lake Powell to Lake Mead.
- Water release from Lake Powell to Lake Mead is planned to be reduced from 7.48 million acre-feet to 6 million acre-feet through September 2026.
- Lake Mead’s and Lake Powell’s water levels have been falling over the past 25 years, and one good snow year will not be enough for long-term recovery.
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