PUERTO-RICO RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Amid fluctuating climate conditions and the ever-present challenge of water resource management, the latest analysis of the nation's dams and reservoirs reveals a complex tapestry of surpluses and deficits that paint a nuanced picture of America's hydrological landscape.

In the Northeast, Lake Winnipesaukee at Weirs Beach, NH, shows a minor deficit in gage height, sitting at 3 feet against an average of 3.77 feet. Similarly, Indian Lake near Indian Lake, NY, closely aligns with its average, pointing towards a stable water balance. However, concern arises as Wanaque Reservoir at Wanaque, NJ, dips significantly below its average elevation, potentially indicating a drought situation that merits close monitoring. The Maurice River at Union Lake Dam in NJ experiences a notable reduction in streamflow, accentuating the need for a prudent approach to managing the water supply in the region.

Conversely, Prompton Reservoir in Pennsylvania, along with General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir, hints at a surplus scenario with current elevations slightly above average, which may suggest a robust water reserve that could buffer against dry conditions.

The southern states present a mixed bag, with the Maurice River at Union Lake Dam in NJ indicating a concerning decrease in streamflow. In contrast, North Carolina's Philpott Reservoir at Philpott Dam registers a minor decrease in water surface elevation, posing less immediate concern but still highlighting the need for vigilant water management practices. South Carolina's Lake Moultrie near Pinopolis aligns with its average gage height, suggesting a balanced water situation. Meanwhile, Georgia's Lake Lanier near Buford shows a lower-than-average reservoir water surface elevation, warranting attention for potential water usage implications.

Drought conditions are particularly noticeable in the arid Southwest, where Lake Mead in Nevada and Lake Powell in Arizona, two of the nation's largest reservoirs, face significantly reduced storage levels, mirroring the broader challenges in the Colorado River Basin. Conversely, California showcases a mixed hydrological state, with some reservoirs like Lake San Antonio exceeding historical averages, while others, like the critical Oroville Dam, remain below average, underscoring the complex interplay of regional water supply and demand.

These disparate snapshots of reservoir and dam conditions across various states underscore the critical importance of tailored water management strategies that account for regional disparities in hydrological data. As experts and policymakers balance conservation with the needs of agriculture, industry, and growing populations, the status of these reservoirs serves as a clarion call for the judicious use and protection of our invaluable water resources.

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.