Sinaloa River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sinaloa River |
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 Location of mouth
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| Country | Mexico |
| State | Sinaloa |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 25°17′00″N 108°29′39″W / 25.2833°N 108.4942°W |
The Sinaloa River is an important river in Mexico. It flows through the state of Sinaloa, starting high up in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. The river travels from the northeast part of the state all the way to the southwest. Finally, it empties its waters into the Gulf of California, which is part of the Pacific Ocean.
The river's journey is changed by the Bacurato Dam. This dam was built in 1978 and created a large lake called Lake Baccarac. Below the dam, much of the river's water is sent into an irrigation canal. This canal helps bring water to farms near the town of Sinaloa de Leyva, helping crops grow.
Contents
Where Does the Sinaloa River Start?
The Sinaloa River begins its journey in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. These mountains are a major part of Mexico's geography. The river collects water from rain and smaller streams in this area.
How Does the River Flow?
The river flows generally from the northeast to the southwest across the state of Sinaloa. Its path is mostly straight until it reaches the dam. After the dam, its flow is controlled to help people use the water.
What is the Bacurato Dam?
The Bacurato Dam is a large structure built on the Sinaloa River. It was completed in 1978. Dams like this are built to control the flow of water. They can prevent floods and store water for different uses.
What is Lake Baccarac?
When the Bacurato Dam was built, it created a large artificial lake behind it. This lake is known as Lake Baccarac. It holds a lot of water from the river. Lakes created by dams are often used for fishing, boating, and as a source of water.
How is Water Used from the River?
A lot of the water from the Sinaloa River is used for irrigation. This means the water is directed through canals to farm fields. Farmers use this water to grow crops, especially in the dry areas of Sinaloa. This helps provide food for many people.
Where Does the River End?
The Sinaloa River finishes its long journey by flowing into the Gulf of California. This gulf is an arm of the Pacific Ocean, located between the Baja California Peninsula and the mainland of Mexico. The area where the river meets the sea is called its mouth.
See Also
- List of longest rivers of Mexico
- List of rivers of Mexico
In Spanish: Río Sinaloa para niños
