The desert valley that sits nearly 250 feet below sea level

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Once part of the Gulf of California, the Imperial Valley is a landscape of extremes. From its massive sand dunes to its lithium-rich soil, this Southern California region is defined by its unique geography, intense desert heat, and a history of dramatic floods that created the Salton Sea.

The Imperial Valley's geography is shaped by its position within the Salton Trough, or Cahuilla Basin. This region is almost entirely below sea level, reaching depths of 235 feet (72 m) at the edge of the Salton Sea. Formerly submerged by the Gulf of California, this low area became isolated when Colorado River Delta Fan sediments accumulated during the Grand Canyon's formation. To the east, the Colorado River bounds this low basin, while the Salton Sea lies to its west. It is bounded to the north by the Coachella Valley region.

Human intervention has significantly altered the valley's hydrology. In 1901, the opening of the Imperial Canal diverted Colorado River water into the valley. Yet, during 1905 to 1907, huge floods ruined irrigation ditches, forming the Salton Sea—a lake currently replenished by irrigation run-off and the New River. Today, the valley's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with major crops including lettuce, carrots, alfalfa, and sugar beets. The area's population is largely composed of low-income residents, making it one of the poorest regions in California. Local industry is bolstered by the El Centro metropolitan area, which serves as a major hub for shipping and retail.

The region is also gaining modern significance as 'Lithium Valley' due to its rich supply of lithium, a critical component for electric vehicles and cameras. While the climate is characterized by extreme daily temperatures—with summer highs often exceeding 100 °F (38 °C)—the valley receives more annual sunlight than any other place in the United States. This intense solar exposure, combined with the area's unique mineral resources, makes it a vital geographic hub for both traditional farming and emerging green technologies. Despite the intense heat, the valley experiences mild temperatures from late October through mid-April. During the winter, the region averages over eight hours of sunshine every day.

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