RHODE-ISLAND RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Across the nation, dams and reservoirs play a crucial role in water supply, flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. The latest observations suggest that while some reservoirs are experiencing high storage levels, others are grappling with below-average water volumes, indicating localized surpluses and droughts.

For instance, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire is currently below its average gage height, sitting at 3 feet compared to the average of 3.77 feet. Similarly, the Wanaque Reservoir in New Jersey shows a notable deficit with current levels at 273 feet against an average of 293.25 feet. In contrast, the General Edgar Jadwin Reservoir in Pennsylvania is slightly above its average water surface elevation, suggesting an abundance in that region. Maurice R. at Union Lake Dam in New Jersey is experiencing significantly reduced streamflow, with a current flow of 192 ft³/s compared to the average of 296.72 ft³/s. In the West, Lake Powell, a critical water source spanning Arizona and Utah, is facing severe shortages with its storage plummeting to almost 40% of its average capacity. Similarly, California's Lake Mead, a barometer for the Southwest's water health, is also recording storage levels significantly below average.

These abnormal conditions can be attributed to a variety of factors, including fluctuating snowpack levels, river flows, and prolonged periods of dry weather affecting water inflow. The data underscores the importance of efficient water management strategies and the need for continued monitoring and adaptation to ensure water security amidst changing climatic conditions. As researchers and hydrologists seek to balance water needs with ecological conservation, these observations offer a snapshot of the ongoing challenges faced by the nation's reservoirs and dams.

Rhode Island has several major reservoirs, including Scituate Reservoir, Big River Reservoir, and Meshanticut Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Pawtuxet River, Blackstone River, and Moswansicut River. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the nearby mountains, including the Berkshires and the Green Mountains. Snowpack in these mountains can contribute to streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs. In recent years, Rhode Island has experienced both record high and low water levels in its reservoirs. In 2016, Scituate Reservoir reached its highest level in over two decades due to heavy rainfall. However, in 2020, drought conditions led to low water levels in several reservoirs, prompting water restrictions in some areas. Seasonal trends also impact water levels, with typically lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams provide crucial water resources for Rhode Island and the surrounding areas.

Rhode Island has several major reservoirs, including Scituate Reservoir, Big River Reservoir, and Meshanticut Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Pawtuxet River, Blackstone River, and Moswansicut River. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the nearby mountains, including the Berkshires and the Green Mountains. Snowpack in these mountains can contribute to streamflow and water levels in the reservoirs.

In recent years, Rhode Island has experienced both record high and low water levels in its reservoirs. In 2016, Scituate Reservoir reached its highest level in over two decades due to heavy rainfall. However, in 2020, drought conditions led to low water levels in several reservoirs, prompting water restrictions in some areas. Seasonal trends also impact water levels, with typically lower levels in the summer months. Overall, reservoirs and dams provide crucial water resources for Rhode Island and the surrounding areas.