TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Texas, known for its vast landscapes and numerous water bodies, is currently experiencing a mix of above and below-average water levels in its reservoirs and dams. As of the latest observations on December 7, 2025, several reservoirs such as Lake Meredith near Sanford and MacKenzie Reservoir near Silverton are reporting water surface elevations above the historical average for this time of year. Conversely, Palo Duro Reservoir near Spearman and Greenbelt Lake near Clarendon are registering below-average water levels. Abnormal conditions in some areas could be linked to localized weather patterns, changes in river flows, and broader climatic phenomena such as La Nada, which scientists predict may bring more rainfall to Texas.

Among the major dams and reservoirs, some are dealing with significant variances. Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Jasper shows a notable increase in water levels, potentially impacting nearby communities and ecosystems. Meanwhile, Lake Travis near Austin is considerably higher than average, raising potential concerns for dam operations and water management. In contrast, Medina Lake near San Antonio and Lake Corpus Christi near Mathis are substantially below usual levels, which could be due to reduced inflows or increased demand for water. These fluctuations may also reflect broader issues such as the Rio Grande's sewage problem or results from recent devastating flooding as reported near a Texas Christian camp. Overall, Texas faces a complex water management challenge, with certain reservoirs brimming, while others dwindle, necessitating careful monitoring and strategic planning to balance water usage, conservation, and environmental stability.

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.