ARIZONA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Arizona's reservoirs and dams are experiencing varying conditions, with some showing signs of abnormal water levels that may be concerning for water supply and ecosystem health. Lake Powell at Glen Canyon Dam, a major reservoir, is notably below its average water surface elevation (3,543 ft) compared to the historical average (3,569.12 ft), indicating lower water volumes which can be linked to reduced river flows and insufficient snowpack upstream. Another significant deviation is the San Carlos Reservoir at Coolidge Dam, reporting a dramatic drop in storage to only 12,220 acre-feet from its average of 114,014.6 acre-feet. Conversely, Lake Mohave is slightly above its average storage, indicating less immediate concern there. The data, last observed on December 21, 2025, underscores the need for careful water management and may reflect broader climatic challenges identified in sources such as Inside Climate News and Kiowa County Press, which discuss strained water resources and new water protections.

Considering the individual reservoir conditions, the Blue Ridge Reservoir near Pine and Lake Havasu are also below their average levels, with gage heights at 44 ft and storage at 503,725 acre-feet respectively, possibly suggesting decreased inflow or increased usage. The abnormal condition of Horseshoe Reservoir is difficult to ascertain due to a data error (indicated by -999999), requiring verification. Bartlett Reservoir, however, is above the average gage height, indicating a healthier storage condition. The observed data aligns with regional concerns over water scarcity amidst consecutive dry years and the ongoing challenges in reaching water management agreements, as reported by Maven's Notebook and The Energy Mix. This situation may have significant repercussions, including potential financial losses and ecological impacts, emphasizing the importance of robust and adaptive water management strategies in Arizona's variable and changing climate.

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.