MISSOURI RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Missouri's network of dams and reservoirs plays a crucial role in water storage, flood control, and recreation. Based on the latest observations, the majority of reservoirs are maintaining water levels close to their average elevations. Notably, the Smithville Reservoir near Smithville is reported at an elevation of 862 feet, slightly below its average of 863.85 feet, while Longview Reservoir at Kansas City is marginally above its average at 891 feet, compared to the norm of 890.97 feet. Such small deviations are common and typically do not signal any immediate concerns. However, the Clearwater Lake near Piedmont is experiencing significantly lower levels at 494 feet, deviating from its average of 500.51 feet, which could point to a need for monitoring and possible water management adjustments.

A closer examination of the reservoir data indicates that while most reservoirs such as Blue Springs, Longbranch, Stockton Lake, and Lake Taneycomo are within a foot of their average levels, the Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir at Warsaw and Wappapello Lake at Wappapello are reporting levels several feet below their respective averages. This could be attributed to lower-than-expected river inflows or potentially reduced snowpack in the region. The abnormal condition at Clearwater Lake deserves particular attention as it might affect water supply and local ecosystems. Cross-referencing with multiple data sources, including local water management authorities and meteorological data, would be necessary to ascertain the causes of these anomalies and to develop appropriate management responses. These deviations, while not yet alarming, should be monitored to ensure they do not presage more serious water management challenges, particularly as seasonal weather patterns continue to evolve.

Missouri has over 200 reservoirs and dams, providing water for drinking, irrigation, and recreation. Major reservoirs include Truman Lake, Table Rock Lake, and Lake of the Ozarks. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Osage, Gasconade, and White River. The area does not have significant snowpack or mountains that contribute to the water supply. The hydrology in the area is typically impacted by seasonal rainfall and drought conditions. In recent years, drought conditions have impacted the water levels in some reservoirs, leading to restrictions on water usage. In 2012, drought conditions caused Truman Lake to reach record low levels. Seasonal trends show that water levels typically decrease in the summer months due to increased water usage and decreased rainfall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing water resources in Missouri, but their sustainability is impacted by fluctuations in weather patterns and climate change.

Missouri has over 200 reservoirs and dams, providing water for drinking, irrigation, and recreation. Major reservoirs include Truman Lake, Table Rock Lake, and Lake of the Ozarks. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Osage, Gasconade, and White River. The area does not have significant snowpack or mountains that contribute to the water supply. The hydrology in the area is typically impacted by seasonal rainfall and drought conditions. In recent years, drought conditions have impacted the water levels in some reservoirs, leading to restrictions on water usage. In 2012, drought conditions caused Truman Lake to reach record low levels. Seasonal trends show that water levels typically decrease in the summer months due to increased water usage and decreased rainfall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing water resources in Missouri, but their sustainability is impacted by fluctuations in weather patterns and climate change.