LOUISIANA 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.

Louisiana is home to several major reservoirs, including Toledo Bend Reservoir, Catahoula Lake, and Lake Pontchartrain. Toledo Bend Reservoir is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country and is fed by the Sabine River. Catahoula Lake is a natural lake that is fed by several creeks and streams, while Lake Pontchartrain is a brackish estuary that is fed by several rivers, including the Mississippi River. Due to its low elevation and flat topography, Louisiana does not receive significant snowfall or have any relevant mountains that contribute to its reservoirs. However, the state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with abundant rainfall throughout the year. In recent years, Louisiana has experienced several record-breaking floods, particularly along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Drought conditions have also been an issue in certain parts of the state during the summer and fall months. Overall, the hydrology of Louisiana is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the various rivers and streams that flow through the state.

Louisiana is home to several major reservoirs, including Toledo Bend Reservoir, Catahoula Lake, and Lake Pontchartrain. Toledo Bend Reservoir is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country and is fed by the Sabine River. Catahoula Lake is a natural lake that is fed by several creeks and streams, while Lake Pontchartrain is a brackish estuary that is fed by several rivers, including the Mississippi River.

Due to its low elevation and flat topography, Louisiana does not receive significant snowfall or have any relevant mountains that contribute to its reservoirs. However, the state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with abundant rainfall throughout the year.

In recent years, Louisiana has experienced several record-breaking floods, particularly along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Drought conditions have also been an issue in certain parts of the state during the summer and fall months. Overall, the hydrology of Louisiana is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the various rivers and streams that flow through the state.