TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Texas dams and reservoirs are experiencing a range of conditions, with several notable deviations from average storage levels. Lake Meredith near Sanford, crucial for water supply in the Texas Panhandle, shows an increase in its water surface elevation at 2892 feet, slightly above the average of 2871.63 feet. Conversely, the Palo Duro Reservoir near Spearman is currently below its average level, with a current elevation of 2826 feet compared to the average of 2838.15 feet. Lakes such as Lake Kemp near Mabelle and Lake Arrowhead near Henrietta are above their average levels, which could signal ample water reserves in those areas. However, Lake Abilene near Buffalo Gap is significantly lower than its average, indicating potential water shortages.

The abnormal conditions of these water bodies could be related to local rainfall patterns, river flows, or water management strategies. For instance, while Lake Meredith's higher level may be due to increased inflows or conservative water usage, the lowered level of Lake Abilene suggests either decreased inflows or higher water extraction rates. Lake Travis near Austin stands significantly above its average water surface elevation, potentially impacted by recent heavy rains or changes in local water management practices. In contrast, Lake Corpus Christi near Mathis is substantially below average, which might be due to the prolonged impact of the snow drought affecting the state since 2001. These variations underscore the complex dynamics of water resource management, where factors like climate variability, infrastructure capacity, and human demand intersect. It is essential for regional water authorities and consumers to stay informed and adapt to the fluctuating conditions of Texas' water reserves.

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.