Recently, NASA satellite images have revealed the astonishing size of a temporary lake that formed in Death Valley National Park due to the impact of Hurricane Hilary and intense winter storms. The park, known as the driest place in North America, experienced the unusual phenomenon of a ghost lake, attracting kayakers and visitors alike.
Death Valley National Park, which typically receives minimal rainfall and high evaporation rates, became a surprising location for a temporary lake known as ‘Lake Manly.’ The lake emerged during Hurricane Hilary, a powerful Category 4 storm that hit Mexico and extended into California, leading to unprecedented rainfall in the region.
As a result of the storm, floodwaters inundated various basins within the park, including the iconic Badwater Basin, a salt flat located 282 feet below sea level. This area, usually a vast desert expanse, filled with approximately 2 feet of water, creating a surreal sight for park rangers and visitors.
Matthew Lamar, a park ranger at Death Valley National Park, described the significant impact of the storm on the landscape, particularly highlighting the transformation of Badwater Basin into a temporary lake. Despite the lack of permanent measuring instruments, the depth of the water was estimated by individuals wading into the lake.
Following the initial formation of the ghost lake, subsequent winter storms, including 51 atmospheric rivers, further contributed to the water levels in Death Valley. By November, the lake had receded to a few inches, only to be replenished by additional rainfall in February.
The satellite images captured by NASA depict the evolution of the ghost lake from its inception during Hurricane Hilary to its gradual disappearance as the water levels fluctuated over time. The phenomenon of a temporary lake in Death Valley, a region known for its extreme aridity, serves as a reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of natural landscapes.
Despite the temporary nature of the ghost lake, its presence in Death Valley National Park has intrigued scientists and visitors, offering a rare glimpse into the resilience and adaptability of ecosystems in response to extreme weather events.
