MISSOURI RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 3, 2026

Missouri's intricate network of dams and reservoirs plays a crucial role in water storage, flood control, and recreation for the state. As of the latest observations, dated February 3, 2026, several reservoirs are reporting water surface elevations that deviate from their average measurements. For instance, Smithville Reservoir near Smithville is currently at 862 feet, which is below its average of 863.85 feet, possibly indicating lower than usual water inflows or increased water usage. Conversely, Longview Reservoir at Kansas City shows a slight increase above its average, standing at 891 feet against the expected 890.97 feet. Such variations, while small, could suggest changing patterns in precipitation, snowpack melt, or water management practices. It is important for stakeholders and residents to monitor these measurements as they have implications for water availability and ecosystem health.

Taking a closer look, Clearwater Lake near Piedmont exhibits a more notable discrepancy, with a current elevation of 494 feet, significantly lower than its average of 500.53 feet. This could be indicative of abnormal conditions, such as a drier season with less snowpack contributing to the inflows or increased drawdown for maintenance or downstream water requirements. In contrast, Lake Taneycomo at School of the Ozarks is slightly above its average, which could be due to controlled releases from upstream reservoirs or local precipitation patterns. It is vital to corroborate this data with additional sources such as local water management agencies, meteorological reports, and hydrological data to ascertain the causes of these anomalies. Understanding these deviations is essential for managing water resources effectively, ensuring water supply for communities, and maintaining the integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

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.