ARIZONA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Arizona's dam and reservoir system is experiencing significant variances in water storage and levels, as the latest data reveals. Lake Powell at Glen Canyon Dam, a crucial water source and recreational area, is currently at a water surface elevation of 3,542 feet, which is notably lower than its average of 3,568.99 feet. Similarly, the Blue Ridge Reservoir near Pine and Lake Mohave at Davis Dam are reporting gage heights below their respective averages, with Blue Ridge at a stark 27.43 feet below normal. In stark contrast, Bartlett Reservoir at Bartlett Dam is slightly above its average gage height. These abnormal conditions can be attributed to factors such as fluctuating snowpack levels and river flows, which impact water availability and storage capacity.

The largest reservoir in the state, Lake Powell, has a storage level significantly lower than its average, sitting at roughly 6,459,680 acre-feet compared to the average 14,685,428.66 acre-feet. This is indicative of persistent drought conditions and potentially lower snowpack contributions. Conversely, Lake Mohave has storage levels exceeding its average, which could result from targeted water management strategies or variations in local precipitation. The storage in Lake Havasu is also below average, which resonates with the regional water stress issues. Reports from various sources hint at the broader context of water scarcity in the region, such as the historic snowstorm that Arizona experienced, the ongoing discussions about the illusion of water abundance, and the complex interplay between drought conditions and sea-level rise. These suggest a challenging scenario for water resource management in the face of climate variability and increased consumption demands. Notably, the reported value for Horseshoe Reservoir at Horseshoe Dam appears to be erroneous and requires verification.

Overall, Arizona's major dams and reservoirs are facing abnormal conditions that reflect the broader environmental challenges of the Southwest. The observed data underscores the need for vigilant water management and conservation practices in the face of variable weather patterns and continued drought.

Arizona relies heavily on reservoirs and dams to store and manage its limited water resources. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Mead, Lake Powell, Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake, and Lake Havasu. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Colorado River, Salt River, Verde River, and Gila River. The hydrology of the area is heavily influenced by snowpack in the surrounding mountains, particularly the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Record low levels have been observed in Lake Mead and Lake Powell due to drought conditions in recent years, leading to concerns about water supply for agriculture, industry, and municipalities. Seasonal trends show that the majority of precipitation occurs during the winter months, while the summer months are typically dry and hot. Water management in Arizona is a complex issue, with competing demands for water use and limited resources available.

Arizona relies heavily on reservoirs and dams to store and manage its limited water resources. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Mead, Lake Powell, Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake, and Lake Havasu. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Colorado River, Salt River, Verde River, and Gila River. The hydrology of the area is heavily influenced by snowpack in the surrounding mountains, particularly the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Record low levels have been observed in Lake Mead and Lake Powell due to drought conditions in recent years, leading to concerns about water supply for agriculture, industry, and municipalities. Seasonal trends show that the majority of precipitation occurs during the winter months, while the summer months are typically dry and hot. Water management in Arizona is a complex issue, with competing demands for water use and limited resources available.