Transcript:
The Brian waters of the Great Salt Lake in Utah fluctuate up and down every year.
But overall, lake levels have been declining over the past few decades. In 2022, the lake has reached its lowest level since measurements began in 1847.
Loikith: “This is the lowest record recorded on a fairly long record, so it's very noteworthy.”
Paul Loikith of Portland State University and colleagues investigate why lakes fall so low.
They found that most of the droplets were caused by reduced flow into the lake. But warm temperatures also cause more water to evaporate from the lake.
Siiri Bigalke, a doctoral student at Portland State University, led the new study.
Bigalke: “There is no increase in evaporation trend, with a record low in 2022.”
As the climate warms, this trend may continue.
However, a range of factors from precipitation to human activities may affect flow. Therefore, it is difficult to predict lake levels in warm climates.
The Great Salt Lake has millions of migratory birds and even helps create a lake effect on Utah ski resorts.
Therefore, it will be crucial to know that lake levels may change.
Report Credit: Ethan Freedman/Chavobart Digital Media
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