MISSOURI RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Missouri's dam and reservoir system plays a crucial role in water storage, flood control, and recreation for the state. Recent observations indicate that most of the state's major reservoirs, such as Smithville, Longview, Blue Springs, and Longbranch, are at or slightly above their average water surface elevations for the year. However, a few reservoirs are experiencing water levels that deviate from the norm. Stockton Lake and Pomme de Terre Lake are slightly below their average levels, while Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir, Wappapello Lake, and Clearwater Lake are notably below their typical water surface elevation for this period. These abnormal conditions could be indicative of regional hydrological changes, including factors such as reduced snowpack, limited rainfall, and changing river flow patterns.

Cross-referencing with multiple data sources reveals that drought conditions, as reported by the Drought Monitor and High Plains Journal, may be contributing to the lower-than-average water levels observed in some of Missouri's reservoirs. For instance, Clearwater Lake's significant drop to 494 feet compared to its average of 500.58 feet aligns with reports of persistent drought-related concerns in the region. In contrast, Lake Taneycomo is exhibiting slightly higher water levels than its average, potentially due to localized weather patterns or water management practices. While conditions remain mostly unchanged in Missouri according to the Oklahoma Farm Report, the Sierra Sun Times reports nationwide improvements in drought conditions, but these have not been uniform across all regions, explaining the disparities in reservoir levels in Missouri. These water storage measurements are critical as they can impact water supply, agricultural practices, and overall environmental health within the state.

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.