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Rio Grande Hits 31% of Median as Reservoir Sinks

By Drooid · Oct 12, 2026, 12:01 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Office of the State Engineer reported Rio Grande flows at 31 % of median, indicating severe shortage.
World Wildlife Fund said the river has lost about 85 % of historic flows.
Office of the State Engineer noted over 112 miles of Rio Grande dried this summer.
Elephant Butte Reservoir was under 1.5 % full on Aug 31, a record low.
Experts cite desalination, demand management and limiting overdraft as long-term solutions despite high costs.

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Story summary

U.S. Office of the State Engineer reported Rio Grande flows at 31 % of median, indicating severe shortage.
World Wildlife Fund said the river has lost about 85 % of historic flows.
Office of the State Engineer noted over 112 miles of Rio Grande dried this summer.
Elephant Butte Reservoir was under 1.5 % full on Aug 31, a record low.
Experts cite desalination, demand management and limiting overdraft as long-term solutions despite high costs.