Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, is shrinking due to a severe drought in the American west, uncovering long-buried secrets. Among the discoveries are at least three sets of human remains, including a body in a barrel linked to a possible mob killing, and a sunken boat from the second world war.
The reservoir, which provides water for 25 million people, has dropped to its lowest level since it was filled in 1937. The drought has also threatened hydropower production and closed boat ramps at the popular recreation site.
Officials expect more grim finds as water levels continue to fall. The recent discoveries began in May when boaters found a barrel containing the remains of a man shot between the mid-1970s and early 1980s, with the killing bearing the signature of a mob hit. A week later, two sisters paddle-boarding found human remains they initially thought were animal bones.
Earlier this week, additional human remains partially encased in mud were found along a beach. The lake has also revealed a sunken Higgins landing craft from the second world war, which was used to survey the Colorado River before sinking.
Lake Mead is not a natural body of water; it was formed by the Hoover Dam, which submerged the Mormon settlement of St Thomas. The declining water levels have exposed the settlement for the last 10 years. Archaeologists say there could be historical artifacts in the water, including relics from the Puebloan people who lived in the area a thousand years ago.
The reservoir's water level has dropped more than 170 feet since 1983, and it is now at about 27% of its capacity. With the Colorado River enduring a two-decade drought, officials project Lake Mead's water levels will continue to fall, potentially unearthing more discoveries.
