Lake-goers this summer might notice water levels dipping into the danger zone at Lake Mead.
On Monday, Lake Mead measured at 1,075.10 feet above sea level. The first level of shortage for the Central Arizona Project is when Lake Mead hits 1,075 feet exactly.
CAP expects the lake levels to bottom out at around 1,072 feet before rising again later this summer.
Remember our record rains in May? In Phoenix alone, rain gauges filled up with 1.17 inches. The rainfall from that month is still working its way to reservoirs such as Lake Powell.
Starting in July, the Bureau of Reclamation will be releasing the surplus water from Powell into Mead.
By August, CAP anticipates Lake Mead measurements to read close to 1,079 feet, which is above that critical threshold.
The expectation is now for a slimmer chance for a shortage in 2016 and 2017 than what was originally anticipated in April.
RELATED COVERAGE: Water reductions could impact farmers first
In August, the Bureau of Reclamation will make a prediction for the next two years about whether a shortage will hit and how severe it might be.
LAKE LEVELS: Check lake levels here
In the meantime, the National Park Service is warning boaters to be wary of the waning waters. Unmarked reefs and other hazards are now closer to the surface of the water, if not poking through. Boating at higher speeds or at night could be very dangerous and temporary extensions now exposed at launch ramps may not allow for ideal traction.
CHECK CONDITIONS: Get launch ramp conditions here
