NORTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

As the latest hydrological data streams in, a broad overview of the nation's dams and reservoirs presents a complex tapestry of water management challenges and triumphs. Across the board, we see a dynamic interplay between natural water inflows, demand for water resources, and the engineering feats that underpin our reservoir systems. In some regions, reservoirs are brimming thanks to strategic management and favorable weather patterns, while others face the strain of drought, with water levels dipping worryingly low.

Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada is experiencing significantly reduced storage, a reflection of the prolonged drought gripping the Southwest. Conversely, reservoirs like Lake Almanor in California are reporting above-average storage, indicative of recent beneficial precipitations. Moreover, facilities such as the Dillon and Granby reservoirs in Colorado show decreased storage levels, which may affect water availability for local communities and ecosystems. In stark contrast, the John Martin Reservoir in Colorado has seen a dramatic drop in storage, underscoring the need for meticulous water resource planning. Similarly, Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico reveals a stark decrease in storage, highlighting the ongoing challenges in water-scarce regions.

In conclusion, the current state of our dams and reservoirs is a delicate balance, with some enjoying surplus and others facing shortages. As such, the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure adaptation in the face of climate variability has never been more apparent. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and innovation in preserving our precious water resources for future generations.

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.