SNOFLO

       

MINNESOTA RESERVOIR LEVELS

March 21 2025
       

In Minnesota, recent observations of the state’s major dams and reservoirs indicate that the storage levels are somewhat below the historical averages for this time of year. The Upper Red Lake at Waskish exhibits a gage height of 74 feet, slightly under the average of 74.39 feet. Similarly, the Lower Red Lake near Red Lake is recording a height of 74 feet, marginally below its average of 74.43 feet. The Lake of the Woods at Warroad is also showing a decrease, with a current height of 58 feet compared to its average of 59.19 feet. Given that the last observations were all made on March 21, 2025, these measurements are fresh and indicative of the current state of water storage and flow in these areas.

The observed lower levels in Minnesota's reservoirs can potentially be linked to climatic trends, with Minnesota experiencing its fastest warming during the winter season, as reported by MPR News. This warmer winter may have led to reduced snowpack, consequently affecting the spring meltwater that normally replenishes the reservoirs. Furthermore, the anticipation of near-record high temperatures in the forthcoming spring, as noted by KPQ, could exacerbate conditions by increasing evaporation rates and potentially altering river flows further. These abnormal conditions could have implications for water availability, aquatic ecosystems, and local communities dependent on these water resources. Therefore, continuous monitoring and analysis of these reservoir levels coupled with weather patterns will be crucial for water management and assessing the impacts of climate variations in the region.

Reservoirs & Dams