Why did a lake form in Death Valley?

Record-breaking rainfall in November, exceeding the typical annual average, caused water to pool at Badwater Basin, forming a temporary lake.

Is Lake Manly a permanent feature in Death Valley?

No, Lake Manly is a temporary phenomenon. High evaporation rates in Death Valley mean any lake formed quickly disappears.

Are there road closures in Death Valley due to recent storms?

Yes, several roads within Death Valley National Park are closed due to flood damage from recent storms.

Home / Weather / Death Valley Drenched: Ancient Lake Reappears After Record Rains

Death Valley Drenched: Ancient Lake Reappears After Record Rains

7 Dec

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Summary

Death Valley experienced record rainfall, surpassing yearly averages in November.
A shallow lake has formed at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
Recent storms have caused road closures within Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley Drenched: Ancient Lake Reappears After Record Rains

The notoriously arid landscape of Death Valley has been transformed by unprecedented rainfall, leading to the resurgence of a temporary lake. November alone shattered rainfall records, delivering more precipitation than the region typically receives in an entire year. This deluge has caused rainwater to pool at Badwater Basin, the lowest elevation in North America, forming a shallow body of water known as Lake Manly.

This rare occurrence offers a fleeting connection to Death Valley's ancient past, when similar lakes existed during cooler, wetter periods. While temporary lakes have formed in recent years, the current event is notable due to the extreme rainfall levels recorded. The National Park Service has cautioned visitors about potential hazards, with several unpaved roads becoming impassable.