Scientists have discovered an enormous underground water store hidden beneath the Oregon Cascades, containing three times the volume of Lake Mead. The aquifer, which holds approximately 19.4 cubic miles of water, is located deep within volcanic rocks and has significant implications for Oregon’s drinking water supply.
According to a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, this massive aquifer is comparable in size to Lake Tahoe in California and serves as a natural reservoir for the region’s water sources. The discovery highlights the importance of understanding how water moves through volcanic terrain and its role in buffering against drought or reduced snowfall.
The researchers measured temperature at different depths around the Cascades to determine the flow of water through rocks in various volcanic zones. This approach allowed them to map out the volume of the aquifer, which is estimated to be three times that of Lake Mead. However, the true volume of the stored water may even be larger than initially measured.
The discovery provides welcome news in a region where reduced snowpack and changing rainfall patterns pose significant challenges due to climate change. While this aquifer is a limited resource, it underscores the need for continued research into its potential for providing reliable water sources.
This study’s findings emphasize the significance of understanding geological systems and their impact on water availability. As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of the Cascades’ geology, they are also shedding light on critical questions regarding water management in the region.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/oregon-huge-aquifer-discovered-cascades-mountains-water-storage-2014543