Hurricane Hilary impacts: Lake formed in Death Valley

A large lake has formed in the driest place in the United States. Hurricane Hilary has left its mark in Death Valley National Park.

In Death Valley in the U.S. state of California, the effects of Hurricane Hilary are still visible over two months later. Badwater Basin, a large depression within the valley located 86 metres below sea level, is now filled with a large lake.

Typically, this part of the national park is completely dry. There are also now small ponds between shrubs and dunes in other parts of Death Valley. The lake is expected to exist for just a few more weeks, as it gradually dries up again.

Hurricane Hilary had moved across southern California in mid-August, bringing torrential rains. Death Valley received around 56 mm of rain in just one day - a new record. That is more than the average for an entire year.

The dry desert soil and the mountainous terrain could not absorb that amount of water. The surface water produced severe flooding, swept away roads and caused further damage to infrastructure.

The park had only just reopened as of October 15th, as Hilary had flooded the roads. Even today, some roads remain closed in the national park. The authorities do not expect a complete opening before spring 2024.