UTAH RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 10, 2026

Utah's water storage levels and streamflow rates have experienced significant deviations from their historical averages as of the last observations on January 10, 2026. The Stewart Lake Outflow near Jensen indicates a marked decrease in streamflow, reporting a rate of 1 ft³/s against an average of 2.45 ft³/s. Conversely, several reservoirs such as Utah Lake and Flaming Gorge Reservoir are reporting higher than average storage levels, with Utah Lake showing 652,528 acre-feet surpassing its average of 629,788.23 acre-feet. On the other hand, Trial Lake, Smith & Morehouse Reservoir, and Willard Bay Reservoir exhibit lower storage levels than their averages, with particularly alarming data at Trial Lake with only 388 acre-feet stored compared to the average of 945.48 acre-feet. This varied data suggests that while some systems are overperforming, others are notably underperforming, which could be indicative of irregular precipitation patterns, snowpack levels, or river flows affecting these water bodies.

Recent reports confirm that Utah's snowpack season has been irregular, with atypical weather patterns contributing to these abnormal conditions. Furthermore, the wider Western U.S. is experiencing a snow drought, threatening future water supplies into the summer months. This situation aligns with the greater trend of drought resolution in California, suggesting that the region is facing complex hydrological changes. The increased storage in Utah Lake and Flaming Gorge Reservoir may be partially due to conservation measures in response to past drought conditions and the management of the Colorado River, of which Utah is a part. These abnormalities in water storage and flow could have a significant impact on water availability, agricultural activities, and ecosystem health in the region. It is essential for local water management authorities to monitor these conditions closely and adjust water usage policies to ensure sustainable management of these critical water resources.

Utah has over 100 reservoirs and dams, many of which are used for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and Strawberry Reservoir. Water for these reservoirs comes from streams and rivers, including the Colorado River and its tributaries, the Green River, and the Provo River. Snowpack from the mountains is a significant source of water for these streams and rivers. Utah experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Drought conditions have been prevalent in recent years, leading to low water levels in some reservoirs. However, record snowfall in 2019 helped to replenish some of these reservoirs. Seasonal trends typically see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing in late summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing Utah's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.

Utah has over 100 reservoirs and dams, many of which are used for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and Strawberry Reservoir. Water for these reservoirs comes from streams and rivers, including the Colorado River and its tributaries, the Green River, and the Provo River. Snowpack from the mountains is a significant source of water for these streams and rivers. Utah experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Drought conditions have been prevalent in recent years, leading to low water levels in some reservoirs. However, record snowfall in 2019 helped to replenish some of these reservoirs. Seasonal trends typically see higher water levels in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt, with levels decreasing in late summer and fall. Overall, reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in managing Utah's water resources and supporting various industries and recreational activities.