By admin 
LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Lake Mead is projected to hit an all-time low by summer 2027, according to new projections released by federal authorities.
Read more Crash closes South Nogales Highway near Country Club
The reservoir is forecast to drop to 1,020 feet in July 2027, 20 feet lower than its previous record low of 1,040 feet in July 2022. That year, long-sunken boats and once-submerged rocks emerged from the water.
MORE ON FOX5: Lake Mead drops more than 6 feet since March, nearing record low
The projected water level threatens power generation at the Hoover Dam. Anything below 1,035 feet reduces generating power at the dam.
Water levels drop faster than expected
When FOX5 visited the lake on April 9, it was at 1,060 feet. It is now at 1,052 feet, down 8 feet.
The new projection for the all-time low is 12 feet lower than was projected last month.
One reason for the change is a shift in federal water management. Less water will be released upstream from Lake Powell to ensure power generation at the Glen Canyon Dam. Lake Mead’s water levels will be directly impacted by how much water is released from Lake Powell.
Read more Three Benson councilmembers could be out of jobs
Nevada explores water exchange with San Diego
Southern Nevada could keep more water in Lake Mead and send less to Southern California if an agreement is reached this week.
On Thursday morning, the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s board of directors will consider a memorandum of understanding with the San Diego County Water Authority to explore the transfer and exchange of Colorado River water resources.
San Diego County uses a desalination plant to convert ocean water into potable water and has excess water.
The Southern Nevada Water Authority said it would not pipe and pump water from San Diego to Las Vegas. Rather, Nevada could access some of San Diego’s water resources directly from Lake Mead through an exchange.
The authority said it is too early to speculate how much water or what the cost would be.
Read more Investigation ongoing after Sahuarita home struck by gunfire