Colorado River reservoirs face historic declines affecting Baja California

Historic declines in the water levels of Lake Powell and Lake Mead are highlighting the water vulnerability of Baja California. As the Colorado River serves as the primary water source for the Mexican state, the situation in these major United States reservoirs represents a binational water crisis affecting communities, economic activities, and ecosystems.

Lake Powell, located between Arizona and Utah, recently dropped approximately 1.1 meters in a single month, reaching levels considered concerning for water and energy supplies. Similarly, Lake Mead has fallen to levels significantly lower than those recorded at the start of 2026, driven by an exceptional drought in the western and southwestern United States.