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Lake Mead Dries, Revealing Grim Secrets
21 Aug
Summary
- Sixth set of human remains found as Lake Mead reaches record lows.
- A WWII landing craft and a ghost town have also surfaced.
- Climate change intensifies drought, reducing crucial river water.
The ongoing drought in the American West, exacerbated by rising temperatures and climate change, has caused Lake Mead to fall to record low levels. This dramatic water loss has led to the startling discovery of human remains, with the sixth set found recently at Boulder Beach on August 16th. Authorities are investigating these findings, the oldest of which dates back to a homicide discovered on May 1, 2022.
Beyond the grim discoveries, the receding waters have also exposed historical artifacts. A World War II-era Higgins landing craft, once used for troop transport, has reappeared, as has the ghost town of St. Thomas, Nevada. The town's residents began leaving in 1935 when the Hoover Dam's construction led to the reservoir's formation, with the town fully submerging in 1938. Much of St. Thomas has been visible since 2004, allowing visitors to explore its remains.
The Colorado River Basin, which feeds Lake Mead, is experiencing reduced runoff. The reservoir's water surface has dropped over 175 feet since 2000, representing a significant net water loss. This situation offers a stark look at the consequences of climate change and a tangible connection to American history.
