Salt Lake Changes Colors According to Seasons (PHOTOS)

Travel

Lake Urmia, a salt lake located in Northwestern Iran, has shrunk down to 10 percent of its original size in the last few decades. It's known to change colors according to the region's climate.

ByEuna Park•September 16, 2016

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This picture taken on Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, shows Iranians spending time in Urmia Lake near Urmia, northwestern Iran. Hopes for survival of Urmia salt lake have been revived after more rains boosted a government program aimed at preserving the almost dried up water body. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)

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Located in Northwestern Iran, Lake Urmia has undergone a major transformation. It has shrunk significantly in the past few decades, down to 10 percent of its original size. The water is also known to change colors, thanks to the microscopic organisms that live in the salt lake.

While much of the lake is rimmed with white salt deposits, the water often transitions from green to dark red in the spring and early summer. When rainfall peaks in April and mountain snow melts, the increased level of fresh water in the lake keep the color green. The summer heat dries up portions of the lake, making it saltier, which is when the lake’s microorganisms show their colors.

People in the region, mostly Azeris and Kurds, have voiced their concerns on the diminishing presence of the lake. In response, President Hassan Rouhani promised a $5 billion government plan to revive the lake.

(MORE: 12 Weird Lakes of the World)

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