What is the Bureau of Reclamation's projection for Lake Mead's water levels over the next two years?
Bureau of Reclamation estimates released on July 15 project that Lake Mead could drop another 33 feet over the next two years.
Q&A ID efe3b3a7-5d66-4b53-8aad-afc5dc803cbe
Approximately how many people are directly impacted by the risks to Lake Mead according to JB Hamby?
JB Hamby, chairman of the Colorado River Board of California, stated that approximately 30 million people, representing three-quarters of the population of the Colorado River Basin, are directly impacted by risks to Lake Mead.
Q&A ID 660897ba-c28b-4aed-aee6-21f0c981af4d
What are the potential consequences for electricity rates if the hydroelectric turbines shut down?
If the turbines are lost, utilities will likely have to find replacement power quickly, with natural gas or other conventional sources being the most likely substitutes, which would result in higher electricity bills for ratepayers.
Q&A ID ece2d70a-f098-421d-a4bc-cd0b222c1c08
What is the projected water level margin for the Glen Canyon Dam?
At Glen Canyon Dam, which forms Lake Powell, the margin before hydroelectric turbines would have to go dark is approximately 30 feet.
Q&A ID 7923f739-7c8f-46c7-97f6-adf0973623cc
What is the current water level of Lake Mead and how does it compare to its full capacity?
Lake Mead is currently sitting at just under 1,040 feet above sea level. This is a significant drop from the 1,220-foot mark, which is considered its full capacity. Consequently, the reservoir is at less than 27 percent of its operating capacity.
Q&A ID 7d16692c-eb9a-4e6b-bb0f-dbefe8f7fea9