OKLAHOMA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 22, 2026

In the latest observations of the nation's reservoirs and dams, water management researchers and hydrologists are closely monitoring the storage levels, which are crucial for water supply, agriculture, and ecosystem health. Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona, two of the largest reservoirs in the United States, are showing significant disparities from their average storage capacities. Lake Mead's storage is at 8,771,099 acre-feet, a steep decline from its average of 17,981,539.67 acre-feet, indicating a severe drought condition. Similarly, Lake Powell's storage capacity is at a concerning 6,262,815 acre-feet against an average of 14,678,502.39 acre-feet. These alarming conditions are reflective of the broader challenges faced in the western regions, closely tied to lower snowpack levels and reduced river flows.

Contrastingly, in California, Lake Almanor's storage has risen to 1,094,528 acre-feet from its average of 895,289.67 acre-feet, and Lake San Antonio shows a positive surge with current storage at 270,863 acre-feet compared to its average of 132,675.92 acre-feet. These surpluses indicate higher than normal precipitation in certain areas. Such variabilities in reservoir levels across different regions highlight the complex interplay of climate factors impacting water resources. This intricate balancing act of water levels underscores the necessity for adaptive water management strategies and the importance of continuous monitoring to mitigate the risks associated with these abnormal conditions.

Oklahoma has numerous reservoirs and dams, with the largest being Lake Texoma on the Red River. Other major reservoirs include Lake Eufaula, Lake Tenkiller, and Keystone Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, with many of them originating in the surrounding mountains of the Ozarks and Ouachitas. Snowpack is not a significant contributor to the water supply in Oklahoma, as the state typically receives little snowfall. Drought conditions are common in Oklahoma, with some reservoirs experiencing record low levels during prolonged dry spells. Seasonal trends show varying levels of precipitation and streamflow throughout the year, with the highest levels typically occurring in the spring and early summer. Overall, the hydrology of Oklahoma is heavily influenced by precipitation patterns and the unique geology of the region, with reservoirs and dams serving as crucial components of water management and conservation efforts.

Oklahoma has numerous reservoirs and dams, with the largest being Lake Texoma on the Red River. Other major reservoirs include Lake Eufaula, Lake Tenkiller, and Keystone Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, with many of them originating in the surrounding mountains of the Ozarks and Ouachitas. Snowpack is not a significant contributor to the water supply in Oklahoma, as the state typically receives little snowfall. Drought conditions are common in Oklahoma, with some reservoirs experiencing record low levels during prolonged dry spells. Seasonal trends show varying levels of precipitation and streamflow throughout the year, with the highest levels typically occurring in the spring and early summer. Overall, the hydrology of Oklahoma is heavily influenced by precipitation patterns and the unique geology of the region, with reservoirs and dams serving as crucial components of water management and conservation efforts.