TEXAS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Texas reservoirs and dams have displayed noticeable variations in water storage levels and surface elevations, according to the latest observations. While some reservoirs like Lake Meredith near Sanford and MacKenzie Reservoir near Silverton are reporting levels slightly above their historical averages, others like Randell Lake near Denison and Lake Abilene near Buffalo Gap are experiencing lower-than-average water surface elevations. These discrepancies are indicative of the diverse hydrological impacts across the state. For instance, Lake Travis near Austin is facing significantly higher levels than average, which could be linked to specific weather events from the previous year. Such abnormal conditions may be consequences of the extreme weather phenomena Texas experienced in 2025, including turbulent storms and severe droughts, as mentioned in various news sources like MySA and ABC News.

The divergent conditions of Texas reservoirs could be attributed to inconsistent precipitation patterns affected by La Niña, which typically brings drier conditions to the region but can also contribute to an active hurricane season. This is supported by reports from AOL.com that discussed La Niña's implications for Texas weather. Furthermore, the need for improved high water warning systems, as covered by Herald-Zeitung, underscores the challenges faced by communities in managing water resources amidst fluctuating climate conditions. The data showing water surface elevations and storage levels in acre-feet reflect these complexities. For instance, Lake Electra near Electra shows a decrease from its historical average, which could be tied to lower river flows or inadequate snowpack contributions upstream. In contrast, Lake Travis near Austin's substantial increase might be a result of heavy rainfall events or flood mitigations, as hinted by the Texas Water Development Board's investment in warning systems. These variations across the state's reservoirs necessitate vigilant monitoring and adaptive water management strategies to ensure sustainability and preparedness for extreme weather events.

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.