TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 31, 2026

As of the latest observations, the reservoir and dam conditions in Texas reveal a mix of both typical and atypical water surface elevations when compared to historical averages for this time of year. Notably, Lake Meredith near Sanford is currently above its average at 2892 feet, which may indicate better-than-expected inflows or management activities. Similarly, Lake Kemp near Mabelle exceeds its average, standing at 1143 feet. However, several reservoirs, including Lake Arrowhead near Henrietta, Randell Lake near Denison, and Lake Bonham near Bonham, show lower-than-average water levels, suggesting potential concerns regarding water supply and drought conditions. These deviations could be related to various factors, including recent weather patterns, water usage, and river flow variations. The observed data also highlight the critical status of Lake Travis near Austin, which currently registers at 667 feet, significantly above its average level, hinting at possible management challenges or recent heavy inflows.

Cross-referencing with multiple sources such as Live Science and the Plainview Herald indicates wider concerns about the state of U.S. dams, with many being old and potentially insufficient to handle extreme weather conditions, which could exacerbate abnormal conditions in reservoirs like those in Texas. The ongoing drought and market shifts, as reported by the Plainview Herald, also shape the water management strategies and crop outlook for Texas. For reservoirs like Medina Lake near San Antonio and Lake Corpus Christi near Mathis, which are well below their average levels at 978 and 76 feet respectively, the impact of prolonged drought is evident. In contrast, the higher-than-average levels in lakes such as Lake Travis may reflect recent efforts to store water in anticipation of future dry spells. It is essential for Texas to continue monitoring these water bodies and implement appropriate management strategies to ensure sustainability and preparedness for extreme weather events.

Texas has over 100 major reservoirs and dams, providing water for irrigation, municipal use, and recreation. Some of the largest reservoirs in the state include Lake Texoma, Lake Ray Roberts, and Lake Lewisville. These reservoirs are primarily fed by the Red River and its tributaries, as well as the Trinity River. Snowpack and mountains are not major factors in Texas' hydrology, as the state is mostly flat and lacks significant mountain ranges. However, drought conditions can have a major impact on water levels in reservoirs. Texas experienced a severe drought from 2010-2015, which led to record low levels in many reservoirs. Seasonal trends also play a role in Texas' hydrology, with most rainfall occurring in the spring and fall. The summer months are typically drier, which can lead to decreased water levels in reservoirs. However, hurricanes and tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall and flooding in late summer and early fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a critical role in Texas' water supply, but are vulnerable to drought and seasonal fluctuations.

Texas has over 100 major reservoirs and dams, providing water for irrigation, municipal use, and recreation. Some of the largest reservoirs in the state include Lake Texoma, Lake Ray Roberts, and Lake Lewisville. These reservoirs are primarily fed by the Red River and its tributaries, as well as the Trinity River.

Snowpack and mountains are not major factors in Texas' hydrology, as the state is mostly flat and lacks significant mountain ranges. However, drought conditions can have a major impact on water levels in reservoirs. Texas experienced a severe drought from 2010-2015, which led to record low levels in many reservoirs.

Seasonal trends also play a role in Texas' hydrology, with most rainfall occurring in the spring and fall. The summer months are typically drier, which can lead to decreased water levels in reservoirs. However, hurricanes and tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall and flooding in late summer and early fall.

Overall, reservoirs and dams play a critical role in Texas' water supply, but are vulnerable to drought and seasonal fluctuations.