What happened
The United States' Strategic Petroleum Reserve saw its crude oil inventory decline by roughly 3.6 million barrels last week, according to a report from Sina Finance.
Following the decrease, the reserve now stands at 285 million barrels.
That level marks the lowest for the reserve since 1982.
Why it matters
A reserve at its lowest level in decades suggests the buffer available for responding to supply disruptions has shrunk considerably.
Because the SPR is a key tool for stabilizing markets during emergencies, its diminished size may leave the US with fewer options if another supply shock occurs.
The drawdown also puts a spotlight on the pace of withdrawals and raises questions about when and how the reserve might be refilled.
Key facts
The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell by about 3.6 million barrels last week.
The reserve now holds 285 million barrels.
This is the lowest level since 1982.
What to watch next
Whether the downward trend in SPR inventories continues in the coming weeks.
Any signals from US officials about plans to replenish the reserve.
How global oil markets react to the multi-decade low in US emergency stockpiles.