CALIFORNIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

California's vast network of dams and reservoirs shows varied storage levels and water conditions as of the latest observations from January 11, 2026. Notably, certain reservoirs are experiencing abnormal conditions for the time of the year, which could be indicative of broader environmental trends. For example, Lake San Antonio's storage levels soared to 270,863 acre-feet, significantly higher than the average of 132,675.92 acre-feet. Similarly, New Bullards Bar Reservoir showed an increase in storage to 867,524 acre-feet from an average of 685,626.72 acre-feet. Conversely, Donnells Reservoir displayed a notable decrease in storage, currently at -86 acre-feet, against an average of 36,105.04 acre-feet. These fluctuations could be related to the recent weather conditions, including substantial storms that have affected precipitation patterns and snowpack levels across the state.

Cross-referencing with multiple data sources, it is evident that California has seen considerable climatic changes recently. The state is officially out of drought for the first time in 25 years, and efforts to manage water resources, such as transforming sewage into drinking water, are ongoing. Nevertheless, some areas are still in need of snow and rain, particularly for agricultural purposes. For instance, Lake Mead's level, despite the storms, remains low, highlighting the complexity of water management in the face of changing climate conditions. The variability in storage levels across different reservoirs, such as the significant increase in storage at Lake Berryessa and Shasta Dam, are reflective of these broader environmental factors, including recent torrential rains and snow droughts in the western United States. These anomalies emphasize the need for continued close monitoring and adaptive water management strategies to ensure resource sustainability in a time of climatic unpredictability.

California has over 1,400 reservoirs and dams, which provide water for agriculture, industry, and households. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Oroville, Shasta Lake, and San Luis Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Feather River, Sacramento River, and San Joaquin River. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs, as it melts during the spring and summer and fills the streams and rivers that flow into the reservoirs. However, drought conditions have been a major concern in recent years, with record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends show that reservoirs are typically at their lowest levels in the fall and winter, and reach their highest levels in the spring and summer. Overall, California’s reservoirs and dams play a vital role in managing the state’s water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.

California has over 1,400 reservoirs and dams, which provide water for agriculture, industry, and households. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Oroville, Shasta Lake, and San Luis Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by streams, rivers, and creeks such as the Feather River, Sacramento River, and San Joaquin River. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains is a crucial source of water for these reservoirs, as it melts during the spring and summer and fills the streams and rivers that flow into the reservoirs. However, drought conditions have been a major concern in recent years, with record low levels in some reservoirs. Seasonal trends show that reservoirs are typically at their lowest levels in the fall and winter, and reach their highest levels in the spring and summer. Overall, California’s reservoirs and dams play a vital role in managing the state’s water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.