NEW-YORK RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

In New York, a recent assessment of dam and reservoir conditions based on the latest dataset indicates that most storage levels are close to their average marks, a sign of stable hydrological balance. Indian Lake, with a minor deviation from its average elevation of 1645.01 feet, sits at 1645 feet, indicating normal conditions as of the last observation on December 25, 2025. Similarly, Onondaga Lake near Liverpool and Lake George at Rogers Rock maintain near-average water surface elevations at 363 and 319 feet, respectively. First Lake at Old Forge shows a slight increase with a current level of 1706 feet, compared to an average of 1705.6 feet. Owasco Lake near Auburn presents a notable drop below the average, from 711.22 to 709 feet. The abnormal reading for Skaneateles Lake, at negative 999,999 degrees Celsius, suggests a data error and requires cross-referencing for accuracy.

Contrastingly, Stillwater Reservoir near Beaver River, with a substantial decrease from its average elevation of 1671.91 feet to 1665 feet, is experiencing abnormal conditions which could potentially be attributed to factors such as lower snowpack levels or decreased river inflows. The absence of data anomalies or significant deviations in most reservoirs implies overall typical seasonal fluctuations. However, the lower water level at Owasco Lake and the substantial decrease at Stillwater Reservoir may affect local water supply and ecosystems, requiring closer monitoring. These conditions could be related to regional climatic variations, including potential changes in precipitation patterns, snowpack, and river flows, which are critical for reservoir replenishment. Cross-referencing with other reliable databases and meteorological reports would provide a comprehensive understanding of these abnormalities and help in anticipating future trends for water management and safety precautions.

New York State has several major reservoirs and dams, including the Ashokan Reservoir, the Cannonsville Reservoir, and the Pepacton Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Esopus Creek, the West Branch Delaware River, and the Beaver Kill. The hydrology in the area is affected by the snowpack and mountains, which can significantly impact streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. Record levels have been observed in some reservoirs in the past, but drought conditions have also been a concern, particularly during the summer months. Seasonal trends often show lower water levels in the fall and winter, with increased flows during the spring snowmelt and summer rainfall. Overall, these reservoirs play a vital role in providing clean drinking water to millions of New Yorkers while also providing opportunities for recreation and tourism.

New York State has several major reservoirs and dams, including the Ashokan Reservoir, the Cannonsville Reservoir, and the Pepacton Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by several streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Esopus Creek, the West Branch Delaware River, and the Beaver Kill. The hydrology in the area is affected by the snowpack and mountains, which can significantly impact streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. Record levels have been observed in some reservoirs in the past, but drought conditions have also been a concern, particularly during the summer months. Seasonal trends often show lower water levels in the fall and winter, with increased flows during the spring snowmelt and summer rainfall. Overall, these reservoirs play a vital role in providing clean drinking water to millions of New Yorkers while also providing opportunities for recreation and tourism.