SOUTH-CAROLINA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

As the latest hydrological data streams in, a broad overview of the nation's dams and reservoirs presents a complex tapestry of water management challenges and triumphs. Across the board, we see a dynamic interplay between natural water inflows, demand for water resources, and the engineering feats that underpin our reservoir systems. In some regions, reservoirs are brimming thanks to strategic management and favorable weather patterns, while others face the strain of drought, with water levels dipping worryingly low.

Notably, Lake Mead in Nevada is experiencing significantly reduced storage, a reflection of the prolonged drought gripping the Southwest. Conversely, reservoirs like Lake Almanor in California are reporting above-average storage, indicative of recent beneficial precipitations. Moreover, facilities such as the Dillon and Granby reservoirs in Colorado show decreased storage levels, which may affect water availability for local communities and ecosystems. In stark contrast, the John Martin Reservoir in Colorado has seen a dramatic drop in storage, underscoring the need for meticulous water resource planning. Similarly, Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico reveals a stark decrease in storage, highlighting the ongoing challenges in water-scarce regions.

In conclusion, the current state of our dams and reservoirs is a delicate balance, with some enjoying surplus and others facing shortages. As such, the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure adaptation in the face of climate variability has never been more apparent. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and innovation in preserving our precious water resources for future generations.

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.