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.

Consequently, multiple roads within Death Valley National Park are currently closed due to flood damage, impacting access to some areas. Although many popular tourist sites remain open, visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially on backcountry roads. Evaporation rates in Death Valley far exceed rainfall, ensuring that any lake formed is transient.