The water level of Lake Baikal, one of Russia's World Heritage sites, is dropping to a serious degree. The Russian government is considering issuing a state of emergency in the lake's neighboring regions.
The lake in Siberia is extremely clear and rich in wildlife. It's the world's largest fresh water lake by volume, but the water level is now at the lowest point in 60 years due to lack of rain and other reasons.
Experts believe, early next month, its depth will fall below the minimum permissible level set by the Russian government. They predict the water level will continue to drop at least until April. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Sergei Donskoi said on Wednesday that he is considering declaring a state of emergency in the Republic of Buryatia and Irkutsk Province.
Local people depend on the lake's water, using it for hydroelectric power generation and for drinking. The declining water level could impact the lives of about 70,000 people. Authorities plan to study the possibility of reducing hydroelectric use of the lake water
◆state of emergency 非常事態
◆minimum permissible 最低許容限度
◆hydroelectric power generation 水力発電
