NEW-YORK RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 20, 2026

In New York, a review of the latest observations from several key dams and reservoirs indicates a mix of conditions, some of which deviate from average storage levels. Indian Lake near Indian Lake, NY, is currently at an elevation of 1645 feet, just marginally below its average of 1645.01 feet, which suggests standard conditions. However, Owasco Lake near Auburn, NY, is experiencing slightly lower levels with a current elevation of 709 feet compared to its average of 711.19 feet. This could indicate a minor deficit in water input or higher-than-normal outflows. Onondaga Lake at Liverpool, NY, has also dipped below its average, sitting at 362 feet against an expected 363.07 feet. In contrast, First Lake at Old Forge, NY, is slightly above its average, recorded at 1706 feet versus an average of 1705.6 feet, which might imply an excess in precipitation or lower usage rates.

Abnormal conditions are apparent at Stillwater Reservoir near Beaver River, NY, where the water surface elevation is significantly lower at 1662 feet, compared to an average of 1671.75 feet. This deviation could be a cause for concern and points towards potential issues such as reduced snowpack levels leading to lower river flows into the reservoir. Lake George at Rogers Rock, NY, also exhibits a minor decrease with a current level of 318 feet against an average of 319.24 feet. The temperature data for Skaneateles Lake at Skaneateles, NY, is unavailable, showing a placeholder value. Cross referencing this data with multiple sources, such as regional weather reports and historical snowpack levels, will be essential in determining the causes of these abnormalities. For example, insights from events in other regions, like how a winter storm drastically transformed California's reservoir levels, as reported by MSN, can provide context on how extreme weather events could similarly affect New York's water storage systems. The deviations in New York's reservoirs may not be as extreme as those seen in California, but understanding these patterns is crucial for managing water resources and anticipating potential issues related to water supply and environmental impacts.

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.