In a spectacular twist of nature, kayakers have been paddling through one of the driest places on Earth after a series of record rainstorms transformed California’s Death Valley into a temporary lake. The rare event replenished Lake Manly, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Park Ranger Nichole Andler described the phenomenon, stating that Badwater Basin, which “is normally a very beautiful, bright white salt flat,” is now submerged under water. “It’s the lowest point in North America. So it’s going to collect water, but to have as much water as we have now – and for it to be as deep and lasting as long as it has – this is extremely uncommon,” Andler said. “If it’s not once-in-a-lifetime, it’s nearly.”
Over the past six months, Death Valley has received more than double its annual rainfall, recording over 12.45 centimeters compared to the typical 5.08 centimeters. Temperatures at or above 54.44 degrees Celsius have only been recorded on Earth a handful of times, mostly in Death Valley, making this aquatic transformation all the more extraordinary.
The temporary lake stretches approximately 9.66 kilometers long and 4.83 kilometers wide, a testament to the unusual weather patterns impacting the region. Visitors like Heather and Bob Gang from Pahrump, Nevada, seized the opportunity to kayak across Lake Manly. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to kayak Lake Manly,” Heather remarked, noting the stark contrast to the arid landscape they had previously witnessed.
The couple, along with hundreds of other visitors, navigated waters reaching up to 0.3 meters deep in parts. Many waded into the shallow areas, while others took to kayaks to explore the expansive temporary lake. “It’s a lot of fun,” said Bob, who shared the unique experience with others, even giving a young girl a ride on his kayak. “It’s good to see the little kids out here enjoying this and seeing something totally unique.”
The lake is expected to remain for only a short period before evaporating under the desert sun. Andler advised that water levels are anticipated to drop in a matter of weeks. “The lake will probably be here into April. If we’re lucky, May. And then it’ll be a muddy, wet mess, and then it’ll dry out into those gorgeous white salt flats,” she explained.
For now, adventurers like friends Trudell Artiglere and Sheri Dee Hopper of Las Vegas are making the most of this rare event. After a day of paddling, Artiglere noted that their salt-encrusted kayaks looked like “glazed donuts,” a humorous reminder of their extraordinary journey.
While the re-emergence of Lake Manly is a remarkable natural occurrence, it also prompts reflections on climate patterns and environmental changes. As Bob Gang mused, “It could be another 20 years before boaters return, but with climate change, who knows, maybe this will be the normal.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
