TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Texas dams and reservoirs play a critical role in water storage, flood control, and recreation for the state’s inhabitants. A recent review of water levels and conditions for these bodies of water reveals a mixture of average and abnormal elevations, which could be indicative of various environmental factors. The Lake Meredith near Sanford, for instance, currently stands at 2892 feet, slightly above its average of 2871.65 feet, suggesting good storage conditions. Conversely, Randell Lake near Denison shows a notable decrease in elevation, with current levels at 598 feet compared to the average of 612.54 feet, raising concerns about potential water shortages or management issues.

Among the major observations, Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Jasper is registering an elevation of 172 feet, significantly above its 162.23-foot average, perhaps due to recent heavy rainfalls or upstream river flows. On the contrary, Lake Abilene near Buffalo Gap is currently at 1988 feet, well below its average of 2003.91 feet, hinting at possible drought conditions affecting the region. Other facilities like the Lake Travis near Austin are also experiencing higher than average conditions, with a current elevation of 668 feet against a 649.41-foot average, possibly related to increased river inflows or controlled releases. Cross-referencing with the two source articles provided does not offer direct data correlations to the observed conditions in Texas but underscores the importance of state park ecosystems and wildlife, such as beavers, in understanding broader environmental narratives that could impact reservoir levels. Overall, while many reservoirs are maintaining near-average water levels, those with noteworthy deviations could be experiencing influences from climatic events, seasonal changes, or human interventions, warranting further investigation and monitoring to ensure water security and ecological balance.

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.