INDIANA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: November 17, 2025

Across the nation, water storage levels in our dams and reservoirs present a patchwork of surpluses and deficits, reflecting the diverse climatic and hydrological conditions that characterize the American landscape. The latest observations indicate that while some water bodies are experiencing higher-than-average storage levels, suggestive of effective water management and favorable weather conditions, others are facing alarmingly low levels, raising concerns over water scarcity and drought implications.

For instance, the iconic Lake Powell in Arizona, which serves as a critical water supply for millions and a bellwether for the Southwest's water health, is currently facing significant storage challenges, with levels dramatically below average, indicative of the prolonged drought the region has been enduring. In contrast, Lake Almanor in California flaunts a storage level significantly above the average, possibly due to recent precipitation surges. Meanwhile, reservoirs like the Dillon Reservoir in Colorado and Lake Texoma near Denison, Oklahoma, are managing near-average storage levels, suggesting stable conditions. It's essential for water management authorities and researchers to continuously monitor these dynamic conditions, as they are crucial for water supply planning, environmental conservation, and disaster preparedness strategies.

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.