Mekong River Turns Blue in Thakhek
The mighty Mekong River, normally a vast expanse of brown, has taken on a bluish hue, making it appear like seawater in some areas.
Residents of both Thakhek in Laos, and Nakhon Phanom in Thailand, have noted the blue color of the Mekong River in recent weeks. Social media has been awash with beautiful scenic photographs of the phenomenon, making the Mekong appear more like the ocean.
The rare change in water color, although attractive, is, in fact, a troubling warning about the state of the river.
The level of the Mekong River in some areas has dropped to only about 1 meter in depth, which is the lowest level recorded in 50 years.
Jasmina Yap
