TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

In recent observations, Texas dams and reservoirs are exhibiting varied storage levels that demand attention. Notable deviations from average water surface elevations can be linked to local water consumption and broader climatic conditions. For instance, Lake Meredith near Sanford shows a current level of 2892 ft, slightly above the average of 2871.62 ft, suggesting stable conditions. Conversely, Lake Abilene near Buffalo Gap is at 1988 ft, significantly below its average of 2003.93 ft, indicating potential water stress. Lake Travis near Austin is at 668 ft, substantially higher than the average of 649.32 ft, which could be due to recent heavy rainfall events as reported by Sierra Sun Times. Reservoirs such as Lake Kemp near Mabelle and Lake Kickapoo near Archer City are marginally above average, which may not indicate severe anomalies, but still warrant observation for potential trends.

Abnormal conditions can be attributed to factors ranging from regional water overconsumption, as suggested by studies on the Rio Grande, to environmental conservation efforts along the Texas coast impacting inflow patterns. Water levels in Lake Corpus Christi near Mathis are notably low at 76 ft against an average of 88.21 ft, aligning with HousingWire reports on increased competition for water resources. Medina Lake near San Antonio also records a substantial decrease to 979 ft from an average of 1020.93 ft, which might be related to the drought conditions mentioned in California and National Drought Summary. These findings underscore the importance of integrating data from various local news sources and studies to understand the complex interplay of factors affecting Texas' water reservoirs and the necessity for vigilant management going forward.

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.