An ancient lake known as Lake Manly has resurfaced in Death Valley National Park, California, following unprecedented rainfall. The National Park Service reported that this revival occurred after a series of storms between September and November 2023. These storms transformed the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, into a temporary lake.
Record Rainfall in Death Valley
During this fall season, Death Valley received 2.41 inches of rain, surpassing the area’s typical annual average. This marked the park’s wettest fall on record. The rainfall was significant, particularly the 1.76 inches noted in November, which broke a nearly century-old record for that month set in 1923.
Impact of Recent Storms
- September to November 2023: 2.41 inches of rain.
- November 2023: 1.76 inches of rain, breaking the old record of 1.7 inches.
The revitalized Lake Manly is smaller and shallower than a similar lake that formed the prior year when Hurricane Hilary affected the region. In that instance, people were able to kayak on the lake. Currently, water levels are low, barely rising above shoe height in most areas.
Geological History of Lake Manly
Lake Manly has a rich geological history. It once dominated Death Valley over 128,000 to 186,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. Rivers from the Sierra Nevada Mountains fed this expansive lake, which spanned nearly 100 miles and reached depths of about 600 feet.
As the climate warmed and the ice melted, Lake Manly gradually dried up, leaving behind salt flats typical of the region today. Views of the lake are infrequent, occurring only after substantial rainfall. The recent storms in 2023 provided a rare opportunity to witness this ancient body of water once more.
Visitor Access
The lake has pooled approximately one mile from the Badwater Basin parking lot, making it accessible for visitors. However, temporary weather-related closures may be in effect due to flooding conditions.
Overall, the revival of Lake Manly serves as a remarkable example of nature’s capacity to respond dramatically to climatic fluctuations, highlighting the significance of rainfall in one of the world’s hottest and driest areas.
