INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Across the nation, dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water supply, flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. The latest observations suggest that while some reservoirs are experiencing high storage levels, others are grappling with below-average water volumes, indicating localized surpluses and droughts.

For instance, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire is currently below its average gage height, sitting at 3 feet compared to the average of 3.77 feet. Similarly, the Wanaque Reservoir in New Jersey shows a notable deficit with current levels at 273 feet against an average of 293.25 feet. In contrast, the General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir in Pennsylvania is slightly above its average water surface elevation, suggesting an abundance in that region. Maurice R. at Union Lake Dam in New Jersey is experiencing significantly reduced streamflow, with a current flow of 192 ft³/s compared to the average of 296.72 ft³/s. In the West, Lake Powell, a critical water source spanning Arizona and Utah, is facing severe shortages with its storage plummeting to almost 40% of its average capacity. Similarly, California's Lake Mead, a barometer for the Southwest's water health, is also recording storage levels significantly below average.

These abnormal conditions can be attributed to a variety of factors, including fluctuating snowpack levels, river flows, and prolonged periods of dry weather affecting water inflow. The data underscores the importance of efficient water management strategies and the need for continued monitoring and adaptation to ensure water security amidst changing climatic conditions. As researchers and hydrologists seek to balance water needs with ecological conservation, these observations offer a snapshot of the ongoing challenges faced by the nation's reservoirs and dams.

Indiana has several major reservoirs and dams used for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Some of the notable reservoirs include the Brookville Lake, Cecil M. Harden Lake, Patoka Lake, and Monroe Lake. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from nearby rivers and creeks such as the White River and its tributaries, the Patoka River, and the Salt Creek. The state's terrain is relatively flat, and there are no significant mountains or snowpack that contribute to the hydrology of the area. Record levels and drought conditions are relatively rare in Indiana, although occasional droughts have affected some regions. The state typically experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, and seasonal trends in precipitation can affect the water levels in reservoirs. Overall, Indiana's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing the state's water resources, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities while mitigating flood risk.

Indiana has several major reservoirs and dams used for flood control, water supply, and recreation. Some of the notable reservoirs include the Brookville Lake, Cecil M. Harden Lake, Patoka Lake, and Monroe Lake. These reservoirs rely on streamflow from nearby rivers and creeks such as the White River and its tributaries, the Patoka River, and the Salt Creek. The state's terrain is relatively flat, and there are no significant mountains or snowpack that contribute to the hydrology of the area.

Record levels and drought conditions are relatively rare in Indiana, although occasional droughts have affected some regions. The state typically experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, and seasonal trends in precipitation can affect the water levels in reservoirs. Overall, Indiana's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing the state's water resources, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities while mitigating flood risk.