The Colorado River, vital to 40 million people across seven US states, is teetering on disaster. Despite the prospect of record-breaking rain and snow brought by an exceptionally powerful El Niño, experts warn that it may be too little, too late.

Record-low levels in Lakes Mead and Powell mean water shortages for Lower Basin states like California, Arizona, and Nevada loom large. These reservoirs, crucial to the river’s flow, are perilously close to their ‘deadpool’ levels, where water can no longer be released downstream.

The climate crisis exacerbates this by causing warmer winters that transform snow into rain, which evaporates more quickly than it would under normal conditions. This year's El Niño might bring some respite but is unlikely to significantly replenish the river’s depleted stores.

Complicating matters further, a century-old water compact governing the river expires this year, leaving states and the federal government scrambling for solutions. A wet winter could provide temporary relief, but experts are pessimistic about long-term fixes.

The severity of the Colorado River crisis highlights the urgent need to address climate change before it's too late. As Zeke Hausfather puts it, 'One big year won't save us.' The world watches with bated breath as El Niño rolls in, hoping for a miracle but bracing for reality.