TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Texas reservoirs and dams are currently experiencing a mix of conditions, with some holding above and others below their average water surface elevations for this time of year. Lake Meredith near Sanford, MacKenzie Reservoir near Silverton, and Lake Kemp near Mabelle are all reporting water levels above their average, which could be indicative of recent rainfall or altered water management strategies. Conversely, Palo Duro Reservoir near Spearman and Greenbelt Lake near Clarendon have recorded levels below their averages, potentially signaling drier conditions or increased water usage in those areas. Notably, Addicks Reservoir near Addicks and Natural Dam Salt Lake near Big Spring reported highly abnormal data points which suggest possible sensor errors or data entry issues, as one value is exceedingly low and the other is profoundly negative.

The variation in Texas reservoir conditions may be attributable to regional weather patterns referenced in recent news sources. For example, reports of rapid floodwaters in Texas' Llano River and warnings about fire danger due to windy conditions in Central Texas suggest that weather extremes, including heavy precipitation and high winds, have influenced water storage levels. The reservoir storage at Lake Conroe was notably high, possibly due to recent rainfall, while the reduced elevation at Medina Lake near San Antonio suggests either significant outflows or insufficient inflows, possibly exacerbated by drought conditions. Given the state's size and climatic diversity, these deviations in reservoir levels are to be expected, but they emphasize the importance of vigilant water resource management, especially in light of the dynamic weather patterns observed. It is crucial for local authorities and residents to stay informed through reliable news sources and weather announcements, as these can offer valuable insights into current conditions and potential impacts on water resources.

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.