NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — Satellite images of the Mississippi River from 2021 to 2023 have focused scientists’ attention on a crisis developing in the largest U.S. watershed. The historic waterway appears to be facing extinction.
The NASA database provided unique photographs of Mississippi taken at different times – September 10, 2021 and September 16, 2023. The amazing changes that have occurred over two years have excited researchers.
Images from 2023 show a shocking reduction in the size of the river and a significant weakening of water flow. Its bottom became visible. Unlike 2021, the river bottom is exposed.
The cessation of rain and abnormal heat played a role in this global natural drama. The drying up of the Mississippi began in the summer of 2023 and is still ongoing. This caused serious problems for the supply of goods along the river, and drinking water supplies in some areas of Louisiana were threatened.
The water level was the lowest on record since records began in 1954. The record drop of -3.29 meters was recorded on September 26, 2023. These sad figures indicate a critical situation in the region.
A drought monitoring map for the US from September 20 to 26, 2023 reveals the scale of the problem. Orange gives way to red, indicating a worsening situation. More than 350 federal and municipal observers provided data on soil and climate indicators.
NASA has provided access to data and models to help monitor the situation. Drought affected about 38% of the United States, particularly affecting soils in the Mississippi Valley. Experts estimate that as of September 24, 80% of Louisiana soils were excessively dry or experiencing moisture deficiency.
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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