NORTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

The latest observations of the nation's dams and reservoirs present a mixed picture of water storage levels, with some areas experiencing surpluses due to recent inflows, while others face drought conditions with below-average water levels. Notably, major reservoirs such as Lake Powell in Arizona and Lake Mead in Nevada reveal a concerning trend, with storage levels falling significantly short of their historical averages, reflecting extended periods of drought and increased water demand in the Southwest. Conversely, California's Lake San Antonio has seen a surge in water levels, exceeding its average and demonstrating the variability of water supplies across different regions.

For water management researchers and hydrologists, the data underscores the importance of monitoring and adaptive management strategies to address the challenges posed by climate variability and human impact on water resources. Reservoirs like Lake Powell, currently at only 44% of average storage, and Lake Mead with less than half its average, are stark reminders of the long-term water scarcity issues facing the Colorado River Basin. Meanwhile, reservoirs such as California's Lake San Antonio, which now holds over twice its average storage, showcase the benefits of effective catchment during periods of heavy precipitation. The contrasting conditions highlight the need for dynamic management approaches that consider both the immediate and future water needs, in addition to the environmental and economic impacts of fluctuating water levels.

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.