SNOFLO


       
       

OREGON RESERVOIR LEVELS

April 4 2025
       

Oregon's dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in the state's water management, but recent data reveals some concerning deviations from average storage levels. As of April 4, 2025, Upper Klamath Lake, Bull Run Lake, Hills Creek Lake, Lookout Point Lake, Fall Creek Lake, Cottage Grove Lake, Dorena Lake, Fern Ridge Lake, Detroit Lake, Green Peter Lake, Foster Lake, and Applegate Lake all show differences from their average water surface elevations. Notably, Hills Creek Lake and Lookout Point Lake are significantly higher than average, with current elevations at 1531 ft and 897 ft, respectively, compared to their averages of 1485.66 ft and 859.45 ft. This suggests that these reservoirs may be experiencing higher inflows, potentially due to increased snowpack melt or precipitation.

Cross-referencing with multiple data sources, including Drought.gov and local news reports, suggests that while Oregon is receiving ample snowpack in some areas, leading to high reservoir levels at Hills Creek and Lookout Point, the region is also witnessing a complex pattern of weather-related impacts. For instance, the current elevation of Foster Lake is slightly below its average, standing at 618 ft against an average of 624.75 ft, which might be a result of reduced river flows or snowpack in its catchment area. The variations in reservoir levels throughout the state could imply a mix of regional snow drought conditions and fluctuating river flows. Reports from Capital Press highlight a contrast between the snow sufficiency in Oregon versus scarcity in neighboring Washington. Meanwhile, flooding concerns raised by the Albany Democrat-Herald in southeastern Oregon indicate the potential influence of sudden weather events contributing to abnormal reservoir conditions. These fluctuations are critical for water supply management, local ecosystems, and potential flood risks, especially considering the recent evacuation orders and school closures due to flooding. Overall, while some Oregon dams are managing above-average water levels, likely due to increased snowpack melt, others indicate potential concerns that require close monitoring to manage resources effectively and mitigate any adverse effects on communities and the environment.

Reservoirs & Dams