Climate change drives water level fluctuations in China's largest inland lake.
The water level of Qinghai Lake in China has changed over the years. It decreased from 1959 to 2004 but then increased from 2005 to 2010. The temperature in the area has been rising, while precipitation has been fluctuating. The lake level is affected by precipitation, runoff water, and groundwater inflow, as well as evaporation. Human activities only have a small impact on the lake's water level compared to natural factors. Artificial afforestation and grass plantation have a slightly larger effect. Overall, the water level of Qinghai Lake is more influenced by climate than by human actions.