Lake Mead Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Mead is a reservoir located on the Colorado River in Nevada.


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Summary

It was created in the 1930s by the construction of the Hoover Dam. The lake is crucial for the hydrology of the region, supplying water to surrounding areas for agriculture and other uses. In recent years, however, the lake has experienced a decline in surface flow due to drought and overuse. Snowpack from the Rocky Mountains is a significant contributor to the lake's water supply. The lake is also used for recreational purposes, including fishing, swimming, and boating. However, the lake's water levels have been decreasing, leading to concerns about the future of these activities. The ongoing management of Lake Mead and the Colorado River is critical to the sustainability of the region's water resources.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.09%
Percent of Normal 47%
Minimum 7,017,651.04 acre-ft
2022-07-28
Maximum 29,904,000.0 acre-ft
1942-07-08
Average 17,999,236 acre-ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release 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.