The Stream, June 26: Lake Mead Water Level Reaches Record Low

The Global Rundown

A massive heat wave in water-starved southwest Pakistan has killed hundreds of people and threatens thousands more. Meanwhile, in Nevada, the Lake Mead reservoir reached record low levels, and the Western Governors’ Drought Forum released a roadmap for further drought action. A binational committee proposed new targets for phosphorus reduction in Lake Erie.

“The mortuary is overflowing, they are piling bodies one on top of the other.”–Dr. Seemin Jamali, a senior official at Karachi’s largest government hospital. Nearly 800 people have died in the past four days in southwest Pakistan thanks to high temperatures and strained water resources. (Vice)

By The Numbers

327.6 meters Water level recorded at the Lake Mead reservoir in Nevada yesterday. This is a record low level for the reservoir, which is currently at 37 percent of its capacity. A water level below 327.6 meters indicates a severe water shortage, and water supply to both Nevada and Arizona may be cut. Associated Press

Science, Studies, And Reports

In order to rid Lake Erie of toxic algae blooms and a low-oxygen dead zone, there needs to be a 40 percent reduction in the amount of phosphorus flowing into the lake’s western and central basins, according to a working group composed of experts from the United States and Canada. If adopted, the proposed reductions would be the first change to nutrient targets for the lake in 32 years. US EPA

On The Radar

The Western Governors’ Drought Forum concluded the first year of its initiative this week and discussed further actions for improving drought tolerance in the Western United States. WGA Chairman and Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval released the Western Governors’ Drought Forum Report, which outlines a roadmap for drought tolerance responses. Western Governors’ Association