VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

In Virginia, two major dams and their associated reservoirs, Philpott Reservoir at Philpott Dam and Little River Reservoir near Radford, are central to regional water storage and management. As of the latest observations on December 27, 2025, the Philpott Reservoir's water surface elevation stands at 967 feet above the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD 1929), which is 5.33 feet below its average of 972.33 feet. Meanwhile, the Little River Reservoir's level is near its average, at 1771 feet above the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 1988), only 0.91 feet below the typical mark of 1771.91 feet. These measurements are crucial as they indicate the health and capacity of these water bodies in relation to historical data points.

The lower-than-average level at Philpott Reservoir may be indicative of abnormal conditions such as reduced snowpack or decreased river flows, which could be attributed to climatic variations or upstream water usage. In contrast, the Little River Reservoir's level is consistent with expected seasonal norms, suggesting stable hydrological conditions in that area. The disparity between the two reservoirs underscores the localized nature of hydrological factors and the necessity of adaptive water management practices. Monitoring these conditions is vital for water resource planning, ecological conservation, and anticipating the needs of downstream users, especially during periods of deviation from average water levels. Cross-referencing multiple data sources confirms the accuracy of these observations, highlighting the importance of consistent and thorough data collection for managing Virginia's water resources effectively.

Virginia has numerous reservoirs and dams that serve as sources of drinking water, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, and Lake Gaston. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Roanoke River, the North Anna River, and the Roanoke Rapids. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains, which receive significant snowfall during the winter months. This snowpack contributes to streamflow during the spring and summer months, which in turn helps to fill the reservoirs. However, drought conditions can also impact the water levels in these reservoirs, as was seen in the early 2000s when severe drought led to record low water levels in many of Virginia's reservoirs. Seasonal trends in Virginia's reservoirs are largely dependent on precipitation patterns. During the wetter months, water levels in the reservoirs tend to rise, while during the drier months, water levels may drop. Overall, Virginia's reservoirs play a crucial role in the state's water supply and are closely monitored to ensure adequate water resources for the surrounding communities.

Virginia has numerous reservoirs and dams that serve as sources of drinking water, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, and Lake Gaston. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Roanoke River, the North Anna River, and the Roanoke Rapids.

The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains, which receive significant snowfall during the winter months. This snowpack contributes to streamflow during the spring and summer months, which in turn helps to fill the reservoirs. However, drought conditions can also impact the water levels in these reservoirs, as was seen in the early 2000s when severe drought led to record low water levels in many of Virginia's reservoirs.

Seasonal trends in Virginia's reservoirs are largely dependent on precipitation patterns. During the wetter months, water levels in the reservoirs tend to rise, while during the drier months, water levels may drop. Overall, Virginia's reservoirs play a crucial role in the state's water supply and are closely monitored to ensure adequate water resources for the surrounding communities.