TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

In Texas, a state known for its diverse and expansive water management systems, the dam and reservoir observations highlight a mix of water levels when compared to historical averages. Lk Meredith near Sanford and MacKenzie Reservoir near Silverton are both experiencing water surface elevations above their average levels, specifically Lk Meredith is at 2892 feet compared to its average of 2871.63 feet, and MacKenzie Reservoir is at 3022 feet versus an average of 3017.53 feet, suggesting higher-than-normal water inflows or reduced withdrawals. In contrast, Palo Duro Reservoir near Spearman and Greenbelt Lake near Clarendon are below their average levels, with Palo Duro at 2826 feet against an average of 2838.16 feet, and Greenbelt at 2612 feet versus an average of 2626.13 feet. These discrepancies may be indicative of regional variations in precipitation, river flows, or water usage patterns.

Among the reservoirs showing significant variance from their average levels, the Lk Alan Henry Res near Justiceburg and Possum Kingdom Lake near Graford are noteworthy for maintaining stable conditions, with current levels at 2215 and 996 feet respectively, closely matching their averages. However, Medina Lake near San Antonio displays a considerable drop, with a current elevation of 979 feet against an average of 1020.93 feet, possibly due to prolonged dry conditions or increased demand. Additionally, Lk Abilene near Buffalo Gap is notably lower at 1988 feet, deviating from its historical average of 2003.93 feet. These abnormal conditions, especially during a time of year where levels are expected to be more stable, may be related to factors such as reduced snowpack in upstream areas, lower river flows, or increased consumption. Recent Texas news sources have highlighted water issues as a continuing concern, pointing to studies and measures being taken to address water supply risks and management, which underscores the importance of these reservoir and dam data observations in informing water resource strategies for the state.

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.