The Titicaca Basin hosts the world’s highest navigable lake, perched roughly 3,800 meters above sea level and covering more than 8,500 square kilometers. Spanning Bolivia and Peru, the lake forms a natural boundary between the two nations. In recent years, water levels have fallen markedly, prompting regional concern. Measurements show a drop to just six centimeters below the historical minimum recorded in 1996, a consequence of a severe drought affecting Bolivia and neighboring areas.
The region endures a challenging blend of climate change and El Niño, which has reduced rainfall. Long-lasting droughts and warmer temperatures have accelerated the retreat of the Andes glaciers. Experts warn that the evolving conditions could threaten Bolivia’s food supply and its hydropower capacity.
Hugo Mamani, who leads Bolivia’s National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (Semanhi), reported a continuing decline in Titicaca’s water level. In early October, the lake reached its lowest point since 1996.
While the shoreline marker showed 2.99 meters in 1996, current readings are around 2.93 meters.
“It’s six centimeters lower, and the decline persists. Evaporation is high, and solar radiation is stronger,” stated Semanhi’s director. The region loses water faster than it can be replenished.
A recent satellite study analyzing images from 1992 to 2020 estimated Titicaca loses about 120 million metric tons of water each year, primarily due to reduced rainfall and diminished runoff.
More than three million people live around the lake and rely on its waters for fishing, farming, and tourism, drawn to the area’s spectacular natural beauty.
Reforestation campaigns
Efforts are underway to slow the water loss by implementing reforestation around the lake. The aim is to raise humidity and curb evaporation caused by intense solar radiation, helping the ecosystem retain more water.
If these efforts succeed, recovery will be gradual. With the arrival of rainy seasons, water flow is expected to rise incrementally, with a return to typical levels anticipated through 2025.
The Bolivian government reports that drought conditions have affected roughly 200,871 families. The Oruro mountain region was declared a disaster area, and La Paz, Cochabamba, and Chuquisaca declared states of emergency. In total, about 144 of Bolivia’s more than 330 municipalities have declared disaster status.
The drought also raises concerns about the economy, particularly tourism, a major activity in the region. Fewer visitors dampen local businesses that depend on tourism, affecting communities and the broader economy.
Fisheries-dependent communities are watching water levels closely, as lower volumes influence ecosystems, climate patterns, and pollution. Agriculture is feeling the heat too; quinoa, potatoes, and oats used for livestock feed have suffered drought stress, according to reports from major outlets. Bolivian meteorological authorities warn that El Niño conditions could persist into early 2024, amplifying weather extremes and water stress across the area.
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