TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 21, 2026

Texas dams and reservoirs are currently experiencing a range of conditions that reflect regional water management challenges and climate variability. Lake Meredith near Sanford is slightly above its average at 2892 feet, indicating healthy water levels. Similarly, MacKenzie Reservoir near Silverton is marginally above average at 3021 feet. However, Palo Duro Reservoir near Spearman and Greenbelt Lake near Clarendon are below their average levels at 2826 and 2612 feet respectively, which could be of concern if these trends continue. On the more extreme side, Lake Travis near Austin has seen a significant increase above average, with current levels at 667 feet, which could indicate an influx from upstream flows or recent rainfall events.

Despite some reservoirs maintaining or exceeding average water levels, there are troubling signs of others falling below expected levels for this time of year, which may be linked to the broader context of drought conditions and water supply concerns in Texas. For instance, Lake Abilene near Buffalo Gap is notably below its average at 1988 feet, and Medina Lake near San Antonio is significantly lower at 978 feet, reflecting potential issues in water availability for the surrounding regions. This comes amidst a backdrop of droughts, such as the historic Texas drought of 2011, and projections of increasing water scarcity. The critical situation is exacerbated by high fire dangers due to dry conditions as reported in various counties across Texas. Furthermore, the state has seen both ends of extreme weather, from devastating flash floods to prolonged droughts, impacting water levels in reservoirs and dams. Such variability underscores the importance of sustainable water management and adaptive strategies to address the growing challenge of water scarcity in Texas.

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.