Lake Mead Inches From Record Low Amid Extreme Heat
Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, is nearing its lowest recorded water level, standing at 1,040.74 feet above sea level as of August 5, 2026. This is just 0.16 feet (1.9 inches) above the record low set in July 2022. The reservoir's decline is attributed to a combination of extreme heat, long-term drought, reduced runoff from the Rocky Mountains, and evaporation. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the region, with temperatures expected to reach 110–120°F (43–49°C) during the day and 80–95°F (27–35°C) at night. Federal officials and water managers are working on conservation measures and future management plans for the Colorado River system, which supplies water to over 35 million people across seven states. 
