MISSOURI RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 1, 2026

Missouri's network of dams and reservoirs is a crucial component of the state's water management system, providing water for various purposes, including agriculture, recreation, and flood control. A recent analysis of the latest observations indicates that most reservoirs are maintaining water surface elevations close to their average levels, which is typical for this time of year. For instance, the Longview Reservoir at Kansas City is slightly above its average at 891 feet, compared to an average of 890.97 feet. Similarly, the Longbranch Reservoir near Macon is just above its usual mark, registering at 791 feet against an average of 790.95 feet. These minor deviations are within normal fluctuations and do not indicate any immediate concerns.

However, some abnormalities are detected in this dataset. The Smithville Reservoir near Smithville and Stockton Lake near Stockton are both recording levels below their average, with current readings at 862 and 865 feet respectively against averages of 863.85 and 867.65 feet. The Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir at Warsaw, and the Wappapello Lake at Wappapello, also show lower than average levels at 706 and 360 feet, compared to averages of 708.77 and 361.44 feet. The most significant deviation is observed at Clearwater Lake near Piedmont, where the water level is significantly below the average, at 494 feet compared to the expected 500.53 feet. These discrepancies could be attributed to factors such as lower than normal precipitation, decreased snowpack runoff, or higher than average temperatures leading to increased evaporation rates. It is important for local authorities to monitor these reservoirs closely to manage water resources effectively and to prepare for any potential water shortages or adjustments in dam operation that might be required.

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.