Giant clouds, destructive floods and social unrest: ‘Storm’ photos show a frightening future

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is retreating fast. It has lost 73% of its water and 60% of its surface area since the mid-19th century due to excessive water extraction. What was once a keystone ecosystem — sustaining rainfall and providing habitat for millions of migratory birds — is now at risk of disappearing completely.

Chilean artist Alfredo Jaar has documented the unfolding disaster. His atmospheric photographs show shallow waters, bare ground and toxic dust. He calls it “a lament for our dying planet.”

His series, titled “The End,” has won the prestigious Prix Pictet , a global award for photography and sustainability.

In its 11th year, the award focuses on a different sustainability issue each edition. This year’s theme was “Storm.” Twelve works were shortlisted and the winner, Ja