US announces steep water cuts for three states amid Colorado River crisis

The US federal government announced a plan for the Colorado River, with significant water cuts for Arizona, California, and Nevada.

The lower basin states could face collective cuts of up to 3 million acre-feet of water annually through 2036.

The plan takes effect in October for two years and will be reassessed.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the department has a responsibility to ensure the river system remains reliable.

Lake Powell and Lake Mead reached their lowest levels in over 60 years in mid-July.