Abnormal lakes have appeared in Death Valley after record-setting rainfalls washed over California during the winter season, which caused temporary changes in desert life of Death Valley National Park.
Now, the driest – and hottest – place in the United States can boast new lakes, a temporary result of heavy storms in February not seen for more than 20 years.
Today, kayakers can be seen paddling among Death Valley’s sand-capped mountains. It’s a fascinating sight – what were once sand rivers are now filled with water, reflecting the bright desert sun. (It’s a phenomenon also visible via NASA satellite imagery.)
Meanwhile, this part of the Golden State remains one of the hottest spots on the planet, with summertime temperature rising above 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
The rare rainstorms benefit desert life, fields of wildflowers emerge, along with lush oases harboring tiny fish. It’s estimated that the water level in the park will remain abnormally high through mid-March.
Despite the rainstorms, Lake Manly, which appeared in 2005 and grew in size this winter, remains closed to boating. The water levels are too low and access involves crossing extensive salty mud flats.
Виталий Атаев Трошин, SlavicSac.com
California Local News Fellowship
