Drought is an all-too-familiar challenge in Las Vegas. The desert city has seen unprecedented dry conditions over the last two decades and nowhere is this more evident than at its primary water source: Lake Mead, the reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River.

Ringed in white residue left by minerals in the water at its former levels, it’s clear to see just how much depth has been lost since the lake was formed in 1937. By April 2022, Lake Mead had dropped to just 27% of its capacity – officially the lowest point in its history – which meant its original 1971-built water intake valve was visible above the water.

The intake is shown here in July 2022, illustrating how rapidly lake levels are dropping.

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