NORTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

As of the latest observations, the national status of dams and reservoirs reflects a varied landscape of water storage levels across the country. Some regions are experiencing abundant water reserves, while others face significant deficits, often correlating with prevailing weather patterns, snowpack conditions, and usage demands. Notably, major water bodies such as Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona have reported storage levels far below their historical averages, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Southwest. Conversely, northern states such as Montana's Flathead Lake at Polson exhibit storage levels exceeding average figures, possibly benefiting from recent precipitation and runoff influx.

In contrasting examples, California's Lake San Antonio has shown a remarkable increase in storage, surpassing historical averages, while Florida's Ward Lake near Bradenton is at a lower than typical gage height. These snapshots underscore the complexity of water management challenges, as hydrologists and researchers grapple with a dynamic interplay of natural forces and human influence. The data suggests a pressing need for adaptive measures in water resource planning and underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring to inform sustainable management practices. Overall, the current state of the nation's dams and reservoirs serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant and proactive water stewardship in an era of climate variability.

North Carolina has over 30 major reservoirs and dams, which provide drinking water, recreation, and flood control. Some of the largest reservoirs include Lake Norman, Jordan Lake, Falls Lake, and High Rock Lake. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Catawba, Yadkin, and Neuse Rivers, as well as smaller creeks and tributaries. Snowpack in the mountains can also contribute to reservoir levels, particularly in the western part of the state. North Carolina experiences seasonal variations in precipitation, with the majority falling in the summer months. Drought conditions have been a concern in recent years, with many lakes and reservoirs reaching record low levels during extended dry periods. However, Hurricane Florence in 2018 caused widespread flooding and record high levels in some areas. Overall, North Carolina's hydrology is heavily influenced by its mountainous regions in the west and flat coastal plains in the east. The state is also home to a diverse range of aquatic habitats, including wetlands, swamps, and estuaries.

North Carolina has over 30 major reservoirs and dams, which provide drinking water, recreation, and flood control. Some of the largest reservoirs include Lake Norman, Jordan Lake, Falls Lake, and High Rock Lake. These reservoirs are fed by streams and rivers such as the Catawba, Yadkin, and Neuse Rivers, as well as smaller creeks and tributaries. Snowpack in the mountains can also contribute to reservoir levels, particularly in the western part of the state.

North Carolina experiences seasonal variations in precipitation, with the majority falling in the summer months. Drought conditions have been a concern in recent years, with many lakes and reservoirs reaching record low levels during extended dry periods. However, Hurricane Florence in 2018 caused widespread flooding and record high levels in some areas.

Overall, North Carolina's hydrology is heavily influenced by its mountainous regions in the west and flat coastal plains in the east. The state is also home to a diverse range of aquatic habitats, including wetlands, swamps, and estuaries.