Rising Waters at Lake Turkana Threaten Livelihoods and Increase Crocodile Risk
Lake Turkana, the world's largest permanent desert lake in Kenya, is experiencing rising waters that threaten the livelihoods of the people who depend on it, and the lake itself is becoming a threat due to increased crocodile populations.

Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, May 31, 2026 —
Rising Waters at Lake Turkana Threaten Livelihoods and Increase Crocodile Risk
Lake Turkana, located in Kenya and recognized as the world’s largest permanent desert lake, is currently facing a significant increase in water levels. This rise poses a substantial threat to the communities whose livelihoods are closely tied to the lake’s resources.
Beyond the impact on human dependence, the expanding lake waters are also contributing to a heightened risk associated with the local wildlife. An increase in crocodile populations has been observed, further complicating the situation for residents and potentially creating new dangers.
The escalating water levels and the subsequent ecological changes at Lake Turkana underscore the environmental challenges impacting the region and its inhabitants.
Story summarized from the original created by Text and photos by Tommy Trenchard on www.npr.org, see more information here.
Media gallery
