PENNSYLVANIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

As of the latest data, reservoirs across Pennsylvania display mixed conditions, challenging the state's water management strategies. Prompton Reservoir and General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir have observed water levels close to their average, with Prompton at 1.34 feet below average and General Edgar Jadwin 1.74 feet above, suggesting stable conditions. However, Blue Marsh Lake and Indian Rock Dam are showing signs of low water levels at 2.88 feet and 4.38 feet below their respective averages, which are concerning deviations.

Recent weather patterns and environmental warnings indicate these abnormal conditions at some Pennsylvania reservoirs may be tied to climatic factors. Reports from fox43.com and lehighvalleylive highlight concerns about ice jams and flooding, while multiple sources including The Valley Ledger and Berks Weekly have reported drought warnings in regions such as Lehigh County and Berks County, urging water conservation. These considerations suggest that the lower-than-average levels at Blue Marsh Lake and Indian Rock Dam can be attributed to the ongoing drought conditions, as confirmed by sources like WFMZ.com and PA Environment Digest Blog. This drought situation is exacerbated by reported harsh weather stressing water systems, as per Mon Valley Independent. On the other hand, the snowpack situation, important for replenishing reservoirs, is uncertain, as SnowBrains reports on Pennsylvania's ski resorts do not directly provide information on snowpack levels affecting river flows into reservoirs. Therefore, the focus remains on drought-related factors and their impact on reservoir storage levels, with current conditions warranting close monitoring and potential conservation measures.

Pennsylvania has more than 3,000 dams and the majority of them are used for flood control, irrigation and recreational purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state are Raystown Lake, Lake Wallenpaupack, and Blue Marsh Lake. These reservoirs are supplied by streams, rivers and creeks such as the Juniata River and the Lackawaxen River. The snowpack in the Pocono Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains contributes to the water supply of these reservoirs. The hydrology in the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The state has experienced record low water levels in some reservoirs during drought conditions. Seasonal trends show that water levels are typically highest in the spring due to snowmelt and lowest in the fall. Overall, these reservoirs play a crucial role in supplying water for the state's agriculture, industries and residents.

Pennsylvania has more than 3,000 dams and the majority of them are used for flood control, irrigation and recreational purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state are Raystown Lake, Lake Wallenpaupack, and Blue Marsh Lake. These reservoirs are supplied by streams, rivers and creeks such as the Juniata River and the Lackawaxen River. The snowpack in the Pocono Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains contributes to the water supply of these reservoirs. The hydrology in the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The state has experienced record low water levels in some reservoirs during drought conditions. Seasonal trends show that water levels are typically highest in the spring due to snowmelt and lowest in the fall. Overall, these reservoirs play a crucial role in supplying water for the state's agriculture, industries and residents.