SOUTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Amidst the complex network of water bodies that sustain life and agriculture across the United States, the current landscape of reservoirs and dams presents a mixed tapestry of storage levels. As we delve into the latest observations, we witness a panorama of surfeit and deficit, each body of water narrating its own story of plenitude or paucity.

A closer look reveals that significant variances in storage measures exist, some reservoirs brimming over average capacity while others languish below. For instance, Lake Almanor in California is currently holding water volumes well above its historical average, providing a buffer against potential dry spells. Conversely, Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico holds significantly less than its average storage, reflecting concerns of drought and water scarcity. These conditions may be influenced by a variety of factors, including regional precipitation patterns, water management practices, and the resultant impact on local ecosystems and communities.

On the other end of the spectrum, Colorado's Granby Reservoir showcases an uptick in storage, hinting at healthy snowpack contributions or efficient water management. However, the narrative alters starkly in the same state, where Vega Reservoir's storage levels have plummeted, potentially signaling alarm for downstream water needs. Similarly, in Utah, the Willard Bay Reservoir's storage levels have diminished, indicating possible implications for agricultural irrigation and urban water supplies in the region.

This intricate web of water bodies across states is a testament to the variability inherent in hydrological systems and the importance of strategic water management. As researchers and hydrologists monitor these vital resources, the dance between natural forces and human influence continues to shape the fluid story of the nation's dams and reservoirs.

South Carolina has numerous small and large reservoirs and dams that play an important role in providing water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, Lake Murray, and the Jocassee Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Savannah River, Catawba River, Broad River, and Saluda River. The hydrology of South Carolina is influenced by its location in the southeastern United States and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. The state receives ample rainfall throughout the year, with occasional drought conditions during the summer months. The mountains in the western part of the state contribute to snowpack, which can affect streamflow and reservoir levels during the spring and early summer. Record flooding has occurred in South Carolina in recent years, such as the 2015 floods that resulted in widespread damage and loss of life. In contrast, drought conditions have also been experienced, such as the severe drought in 2016 that led to water restrictions and low reservoir levels. Seasonal trends in streamflow and reservoir levels vary depending on rainfall patterns and other factors.

South Carolina has numerous small and large reservoirs and dams that play an important role in providing water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, Lake Murray, and the Jocassee Reservoir. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Savannah River, Catawba River, Broad River, and Saluda River.

The hydrology of South Carolina is influenced by its location in the southeastern United States and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. The state receives ample rainfall throughout the year, with occasional drought conditions during the summer months. The mountains in the western part of the state contribute to snowpack, which can affect streamflow and reservoir levels during the spring and early summer.

Record flooding has occurred in South Carolina in recent years, such as the 2015 floods that resulted in widespread damage and loss of life. In contrast, drought conditions have also been experienced, such as the severe drought in 2016 that led to water restrictions and low reservoir levels. Seasonal trends in streamflow and reservoir levels vary depending on rainfall patterns and other factors.