NORTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In the latest observations across the nation's dams and reservoirs, a comprehensive assessment reveals a mixed landscape of water storage levels, with variances that reflect the diverse climatic conditions and water management strategies at play. Some regions are experiencing surpluses, while others face droughts, underscoring the importance of adaptive water management.

Among the reservoirs recording higher than average storage levels are Lake Almanor in California, which currently holds over a million acre-feet more than its average, signifying a surplus that benefits local ecosystems and water supply. Conversely, Lake Powell in Arizona reflects a stark deficit, with its storage levels falling approximately 8 million acre-feet short of the average, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Colorado River Basin. Similarly, New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir storage is significantly below its historical average, echoing water scarcity concerns in the Southwest. These conditions not only impact water availability for human consumption but also have far-reaching effects on agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and natural habitats. The variances in reservoir levels can often be traced back to factors such as snowpack levels, river flows, and regional precipitation patterns, which are influenced by broader climatic shifts and require ongoing monitoring and responsive water management strategies to ensure sustainable use and conservation of this vital resource.

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.