SNOFLO
 

       

COLORADO RESERVOIR LEVELS

March 25 2025
       
       

As of late March 2025, Colorado's reservoirs and dams exhibit a mix of storage levels, with some facing abnormal conditions for this time of year. Notably, the Teller Reservoir near Stone City has an unrecorded current water surface elevation, possibly indicating data collection issues. Trinidad Lake near Trinidad is slightly above average at 6187 feet compared to the typical 6182.44 feet. Conversely, John Martin Reservoir at Caddoa is below its average water surface elevation, with 3806 feet against the expected 3817.36 feet. Storage levels show significant variances too. For instance, Pueblo Reservoir near Pueblo exceeds its average storage by nearly 50%, whereas McPhee Reservoir's storage is at 78% of its average. These discrepancies could be influenced by factors such as snowpack levels, earlier snowmelt, and overall regional climate patterns.

Abnormal conditions can be attributed to a range of factors, including snowpack, river flows, and broader climate trends. For instance, despite recent storms boosting snowpack across the West, this has not translated into commensurate improvements for all reservoirs—such as Lake Powell. Colorado's climate exhibits increasing variability, with rapid transitions from heavy precipitation to drought conditions. This "hydroclimate whiplash" is challenging water resource management. Southern Colorado is likely to experience drought development this spring, as referenced by KOAA News 5. Moreover, NOAA's critical drought warnings underline the concerns surrounding water scarcity, emphasizing the impact of climate change on the region's water cycle. The situation is complex and dynamic, with ongoing diplomatic dialogues regarding water allocations, as seen in the U.S.-Mexico water sharing discussions. Understanding these factors is crucial for managing the state's dams and reservoirs, which are cornerstones for water supply in Colorado and downstream regions.

Reservoirs & Dams