NM00154-SANTA-ANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 3, 2026

In a comprehensive review of the nation's dams and reservoirs, water storage levels reveal a mix of surpluses and deficits that reflect the diverse hydrological conditions across different regions. Most notably, Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona, two of the country's largest reservoirs, are facing significant shortages with storage levels far below their historical averages, which is a cause for concern given their critical role in supplying water to the Southwest. On the upside, California’s Lake Almanor and Lake San Antonio have reported storage levels exceeding their historical averages, indicating a surplus that benefits local water supplies and ecosystems.

Analyzing the data further, patterns of drought can be seen in New Mexico with both El Vado Lake and Heron Reservoir operating at a fraction of their potential storage capacity. Conversely, Utah's Utah Lake is brimming, exceeding its average storage level and offering a buffer in water resource management. The variability of storage levels is also evident in Colorado, where Dillon Reservoir and Granby Reservoir are below their usual storage measures, while Vallecito Reservoir and Lemon Reservoir are experiencing an uptick in their storage. These conditions are not only indicative of the immediate water availability but are also reflective of broader climate trends, snowpack levels, and river flows that feed into these crucial water bodies. The complex interplay of these factors underscores the importance of vigilant water management and conservation strategies to ensure sustainable water use in the face of fluctuating hydrological conditions.