Why is the Salton Sea drying up?
Posted on Jul 06, 2026 / Travel
The Salton Sea is drying up because it receives less water than it used to. Much of the water that once flowed into the lake has been redirected for farming and growing communities across Southern California. Since the sea has no natural outlet, water only leaves through evaporation. As the water level drops, the remaining water becomes saltier every year. Higher salt levels make it difficult for many fish and other wildlife to survive. The shrinking shoreline also exposes dusty lakebed that can affect nearby air quality. State and local agencies are working on restoration projects, but bringing long-term improvements is a major challenge.
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