A prolonged drought has caused the Tennessee River to drop to one of its lowest levels in its 152-year recorded history, according to the managing Tennessee Valley Authority.
Although there has recently been substantial rainfall in some areas, dry, absorbent soil prevented a normal amount of runoff from reaching the river.
With dry summer weather at hand, the conditions could worsen, raising concerns about the river’s boat traffic and reservoir management. The river’s water quality may also be affected…