OKLAHOMA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

As we review the latest data on the nation's dams and reservoirs, it's clear that water storage levels are exhibiting significant variability across different regions. Some areas are experiencing surpluses, while others are facing drought conditions that have led to lower than average water levels.

In particular, regions such as California have seen a mix of conditions, with Lake Almanor and New Bullards Bar showcasing higher-than-average storage, indicative of recent rainfall or snowmelt contributions. On the other hand, Lake Mead in Nevada and Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico are alarmingly below their average storage levels, reflecting the ongoing drought conditions in the Southwest. Additionally, storage levels in Colorado's Vega Reservoir have dipped considerably, suggesting potential water supply concerns if these trends continue.

The picture is not uniformly bleak, as some reservoirs, such as Vallecito Reservoir in Colorado, are currently holding more water than usual, which may provide some cushion against potential dry spells ahead. However, such surpluses are exceptions in the broader context of reservoirs like John Martin Reservoir in Colorado and San Luis Reservoir in California, which are well below their average storage levels, raising concerns about water availability for agriculture and urban needs.

These disparities in reservoir levels can often be traced back to localized weather patterns, river flows, and the impact of climate change, which affects snowpack melt and precipitation rates. For instance, the low levels in Lake Powell and Lake Mead are partly due to reduced snowpack in the Rockies and increased evaporation rates. It is critical for water managers and hydrologists to monitor these trends and plan accordingly to ensure sustainable water resource management and to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events on water supplies.

Overall, the current data underscore the need for careful monitoring of water levels and proactive planning for water conservation efforts, as well as the need to investigate patterns in snowpack and river flows to better prepare for future environmental and usage demands on these critical resources.

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.