The Colorado River system, including Lakes Mead and Powell, has faced declining water levels, threatening hydropower generation and water supplies. While El Niño could bring much-needed moisture, its benefits depend on the orientation of the jet stream. If the jet stream shifts north, the Colorado River Basin may not receive sufficient rainfall or snowfall. Additionally, even with above-average precipitation, the region would require 15-25 inches of rain or melted snow in a year to fully recover from the drought.