The water levels in Lake Lanier began dropping earlier this year after an extended period without rain; the lake level has not been this low in close to four years. Lake Lanier is the source of Atlanta’s water and if the levels get progressively worse, water will be a thing to fight for in the surrounding areas of Lake Sidney Lanier.

In 2012, the lake was at 1,058 feet above sea level or 13 feet below full pool. Now, in 2016, the lake is at 1,061.51 feet above sea level or 8 feet below full pool. It is very close to the levels in 2012. The water levels are not expected to rise; according to Wabe.org, Ulseth said, “All of the models and forecasts that we’ve seen have shown that the drought will extend into the early parts of at least 2017.”

Nearly two dozen boat ramps on the lake have closed due to low levels. The lack of rain for many months is a contributing factor to the lowering water levels. The aftermath of Hurricane Matthew did not provide very much rain, only light sprinkling. Some recent rain has improved the lake levels, but it is still dangerously low with Georgia’s below record rainfall for this year.