Satellite Images Reveal Dramatic Changes to Lake Mead

Satellite imagery from Landsat 1 and Landsat 9 provides a striking look at how Lake Mead has changed over the past several decades. From the early 1970s to today, these images reveal the dramatic shrinkage of the reservoir as the ongoing megadrought continues to reshape the region. During that time, Lake Mead’s elevation has dropped from about 1,155 feet above sea level in 1972 to roughly 1,041 feet today. Watch the footage to see how these changes have unfolded and what they reveal about one of America’s most important water sources.