KANSAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

In the latest observations from Kansas, key reservoirs and dams have shown variations in water surface elevations compared to their historical averages. Notably, Milford Lake near Junction City, which typically has an average surface elevation of 1145.26 feet above NGVD 1929, is currently at 1143 feet, indicating a slight decrease in storage levels. Similarly, Cedar Bluff Reservoir near Ellis is registering an elevation of 2120 feet, below its average of 2125.24 feet. Other reservoirs like Kanopolis Lake, Wilson Lake, Tuttle Creek Lake, Perry Lake, Clinton Lake, Melvern Lake, Pomona Lake, Hillsdale Lake, and Cheney Reservoir are also reporting elevations marginally lower than their respective averages, except for Cheney Reservoir, which is slightly above its average level. These slight deviations may not be singularly alarming but could signify early signs of changes in water availability, possibly related to fluctuations in snowpack levels, precipitation patterns, and river flows.

Examining the abnormal conditions, the lower storage levels across most dams, except Cheney Reservoir, could potentially be a result of reduced snowpack or lower-than-expected river inflows for this time of year. Since the measurements were observed on December 24, 2025, we should consider winter precipitation trends and potential impacts of climate variability. For instance, a milder winter with less snowfall can lead to decreased snowpack, subsequently resulting in lower spring and summer runoff into these reservoirs. Such alterations in water supply can have cascading effects on water management, agriculture, and municipal usage. On the other hand, the higher level at Cheney Reservoir might indicate localized weather patterns that have resulted in atypical accumulation or management strategies that have retained more water. To confirm these hypotheses and ensure the most accurate understanding of the current conditions, it is vital to cross-reference these observations with additional data sources, including snowpack analysis reports, regional climate data, and water usage records. This comprehensive approach will help in elucidating the specific causes behind the observed water level variations in Kansas's major dams and reservoirs.

Kansas has 24 major reservoirs, many of which were created by dams on streams such as the Arkansas, Smoky Hill, and Republican Rivers. The largest reservoirs are Tuttle Creek, Milford Lake, and Cheney Lake. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Kansas hydrology, as the state is relatively flat. Kansas has experienced drought conditions in recent years, with some reservoirs reaching record low levels. In general, seasonal trends see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and spring rains, with levels decreasing in the late summer and fall. Management of reservoirs and dams is crucial for both water supply and flood control in the state.

Kansas has 24 major reservoirs, many of which were created by dams on streams such as the Arkansas, Smoky Hill, and Republican Rivers. The largest reservoirs are Tuttle Creek, Milford Lake, and Cheney Lake. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Kansas hydrology, as the state is relatively flat. Kansas has experienced drought conditions in recent years, with some reservoirs reaching record low levels. In general, seasonal trends see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and spring rains, with levels decreasing in the late summer and fall. Management of reservoirs and dams is crucial for both water supply and flood control in the state.