Wappapello Lake At Wappapello Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wappapello Lake is a reservoir located in southeast Missouri near the town of Wappapello.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The lake was created in 1941 by the construction of Wappapello Dam on the St. Francis River. The lake covers an area of 8,400 acres and has a maximum depth of 45 feet. The lake serves as a major source of drinking water for the region and supports a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake's hydrology is largely dependent on surface flow from the St. Francis River and snowpack in the surrounding mountains. The surrounding areas are mostly used for agricultural purposes, including cotton, soybeans, and corn. Wappapello Lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of activities and amenities.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.19%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 353.4 ft
2023-02-08
Maximum 399.81 ft
2011-05-04
Average 362 ft
Dam_Height 109
Hydraulic_Height 103
Drainage_Area 1310
Year_Completed 1941
Nid_Storage 1134600
Structural_Height 114
River_Or_Stream ST. FRANCIS RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 23200
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Vertical Lift - 3
Dam_Length 2700
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 114
       
Seasonal Comparison
Precipitation, Total, In Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.