NewsCalifornia News

Actions

Western states face first federal water cuts

Lake Mead
Posted
and last updated

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials are expected to declare the first-ever water shortage from a river that serves 40 million people in the West.

The anticipated forecast Monday will mean some Arizona farmers get less water from the Colorado River next year, forcing them to make adjustments.

A prolonged drought made worse by climate change has led to record low water levels at Lake Mead, one of the river's reservoirs.

The situation highlights the challenges for a region that's also growing in population.

The Colorado River provides drinking water, irrigation for farms and hydropower to seven Western states and parts of Mexico.

,

Weather

Daily Forecast

View Hourly Forecast

Day

Conditions

HI / LO

Precip

Sunday

07/06/2025

Mostly Clear

-° / 70°

0%

Monday

07/07/2025

Clear

100° / 68°

0%

Tuesday

07/08/2025

Mostly Clear

100° / 68°

0%

Wednesday

07/09/2025

Clear

98° / 70°

0%

Thursday

07/10/2025

Clear

101° / 73°

0%

Friday

07/11/2025

Clear

106° / 75°

0%

Saturday

07/12/2025

Clear

105° / 75°

0%

Sunday

07/13/2025

Clear

105° / 76°

0%