ARIZONA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Arizona's reservoirs and dams are currently exhibiting a mix of average and abnormal water storage levels, as indicated by the most recent measurements. Notably, Lake Powell at Glen Canyon Dam, a major water storage site, is showing significantly lower water surface elevation levels than average, sitting at 3543 feet compared to the average of 3569.04 feet. Similarly, the San Carlos Reservoir at Coolidge Dam is facing a stark reduction in its storage capacity, holding only 12,510 acre-feet of water against an average of 113,903.63 acre-feet. In contrast, Bartlett Reservoir at Bartlett Dam and Lake Mohave are exceeding their average storage levels, with Bartlett Reservoir recording a gage height of 181 feet over the usual 174.34 feet and Lake Mohave's storage increasing to 1,657,192 acre-feet from an average of 1,594,817.57 acre-feet.

Analyzing these conditions in the context of regional climate and hydrological data suggests that the abnormal conditions at Lake Powell and San Carlos Reservoir could be linked to factors such as reduced snowpack and lower river flows, which are critical contributors to these water bodies. The Arizona Daily Star has highlighted concerns that Lake Powell could reach crisis levels by 2026. This is mirrored by discussions on coyotegulch.blog about the ongoing water shortage and calls for a compromise on the Colorado River, which feeds into Lake Powell. These sources indicate a broader context of aridification and water management challenges in Arizona. Conversely, higher-than-average levels in Bartlett Reservoir and Lake Mohave may reflect recent local variations in precipitation or water management efforts. It's important for water authorities and consumers to monitor these developments closely, as water storage levels directly impact water supply, power generation, and ecosystem health across the state.

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.