PUERTO-RICO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

In the latest observations across the nation's dams and reservoirs, a comprehensive assessment reveals a mixed landscape of water storage levels, with variances that reflect the diverse climatic conditions and water management strategies at play. Some regions are experiencing surpluses, while others face droughts, underscoring the importance of adaptive water management.

Among the reservoirs recording higher than average storage levels are Lake Almanor in California, which currently holds over a million acre-feet more than its average, signifying a surplus that benefits local ecosystems and water supply. Conversely, Lake Powell in Arizona reflects a stark deficit, with its storage levels falling approximately 8 million acre-feet short of the average, indicative of the prolonged drought affecting the Colorado River Basin. Similarly, New Mexico's Elephant Butte Reservoir storage is significantly below its historical average, echoing water scarcity concerns in the Southwest. These conditions not only impact water availability for human consumption but also have far-reaching effects on agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and natural habitats. The variances in reservoir levels can often be traced back to factors such as snowpack levels, river flows, and regional precipitation patterns, which are influenced by broader climatic shifts and require ongoing monitoring and responsive water management strategies to ensure sustainable use and conservation of this vital resource.

Puerto Rico has several major reservoirs and dams that serve as critical sources of water for the island's population and agriculture. The largest reservoir is the Carraízo Lake, which is fed by the Rio Grande de Loíza and other smaller streams. Other major reservoirs include the Dos Bocas and Caonillas Reservoirs. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the central mountain range, which receives the majority of the precipitation and snowpack during the winter months. Drought conditions are common in Puerto Rico, and water conservation measures are often necessary to maintain adequate water supply. In recent years, the island has experienced record drought conditions, with some reservoirs dropping to historic lows. Seasonal trends show that the island's wet season is from May to November, while the dry season runs from December to April. Overall, the management and maintenance of Puerto Rico's reservoirs and dams remain critical to ensuring a reliable water supply for the island's population and agriculture.

Puerto Rico has several major reservoirs and dams that serve as critical sources of water for the island's population and agriculture. The largest reservoir is the Carraízo Lake, which is fed by the Rio Grande de Loíza and other smaller streams. Other major reservoirs include the Dos Bocas and Caonillas Reservoirs. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the central mountain range, which receives the majority of the precipitation and snowpack during the winter months. Drought conditions are common in Puerto Rico, and water conservation measures are often necessary to maintain adequate water supply. In recent years, the island has experienced record drought conditions, with some reservoirs dropping to historic lows. Seasonal trends show that the island's wet season is from May to November, while the dry season runs from December to April. Overall, the management and maintenance of Puerto Rico's reservoirs and dams remain critical to ensuring a reliable water supply for the island's population and agriculture.