NEVADA RESERVOIR REPORT
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Nevada's dams and reservoirs are experiencing a mix of conditions as of the latest observations, with some reservoirs showing higher than average water levels for this time of year. The Topaz Lake near Topaz has a water surface elevation of 92 feet, which is notably higher than its average of 87.77 feet. Similarly, the Wild Horse Reservoir near Gold Creek is also recording water levels above the average, with a current elevation of 6195 feet compared to a usual 6191.94 feet. In stark contrast, Marlette Lake near Carson City is facing drastically low water levels, standing at 16 feet, which is far below its average of 36.1 feet. Lake Mead, a significant water body in the region, is at a storage level of 8,557,127 acre-feet, which is significantly lower than its average storage of 17,989,324 acre-feet. These observations are up to date as of December 26, 2025.
The abnormal conditions can be attributed to the recent extreme weather patterns impacting the region. Reports have indicated historically high levels at some US reservoirs due to an influx of moisture brought by atmospheric rivers, which have led to record rainfall in areas like Reno and substantial snowfall over Lake Tahoe. This influx has increased inflows into reservoirs and raised water levels in some instances. However, the low water levels in reservoirs like Marlette Lake and the significantly diminished storage in Lake Mead suggest that not all areas have benefited equally from the recent precipitation, and long-term drought conditions may still be having an impact. The severity of the situation is highlighted by the unusual disparity between reservoirs in close proximity, suggesting that localized weather events and water management practices are influencing each reservoir differently.
Nevada's major reservoirs and dams include Lake Mead, Lake Tahoe, and Hoover Dam. Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the US and is fed by the Colorado River, while Lake Tahoe is fed by the Truckee River. Snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a major source of water for these reservoirs. In recent years, drought conditions have led to record-low levels in Lake Mead, causing concerns about water shortages for the surrounding states. Seasonal trends include lower water levels in the fall and winter months, with spring snowmelt providing a boost in water supply. Overall, the hydrology in Nevada is heavily dependent on snowpack and the management of water resources is crucial to ensure sustainable use in the face of changing climate conditions.
Nevada's major reservoirs and dams include Lake Mead, Lake Tahoe, and Hoover Dam. Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the US and is fed by the Colorado River, while Lake Tahoe is fed by the Truckee River. Snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a major source of water for these reservoirs. In recent years, drought conditions have led to record-low levels in Lake Mead, causing concerns about water shortages for the surrounding states. Seasonal trends include lower water levels in the fall and winter months, with spring snowmelt providing a boost in water supply. Overall, the hydrology in Nevada is heavily dependent on snowpack and the management of water resources is crucial to ensure sustainable use in the face of changing climate conditions.