WEST-VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

West Virginia's network of dams and reservoirs plays a crucial role in water management, flood control, and recreation for the state. Based on the latest observations, most reservoirs are currently experiencing levels near their historical averages, indicating stable conditions across the board. For instance, the South Mill Creek near Mozer holds a gage height of 8 ft, just slightly below its average of 9.01 ft, and Whetstone Run near Mannington is at 13 ft, also just below the average of 13.47 ft. This suggests that, for the most part, water storage facilities are operating within expected parameters for this time of year, without significant deviations that could indicate potential problems such as drought or flooding.

However, a few reservoirs have shown slight variations from their average readings, which could warrant closer monitoring. The North Fork Hughes River near Cairo is slightly above its average, with a current gage height of 43 ft compared to a typical 42.79 ft. Similarly, the Tug Fork at Statts Mills registers at 51 ft, a modest increase from its average of 50.53 ft. These higher-than-average levels could be related to recent weather patterns, such as increased precipitation or melting snowpack, affecting river flows into the reservoirs. It's important to cross-reference these findings with meteorological data and water usage reports to determine the causes and potential impacts. While current conditions do not appear to be cause for alarm, continuous observation is essential to ensure that any emerging trends or anomalies are addressed promptly to maintain the delicate balance of water resource management in West Virginia.

West Virginia is home to numerous reservoirs and dams that play a crucial role in providing water for the state's residents, industries, and agriculture. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Sutton Lake, Summersville Lake, and Bluestone Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Elk River, Gauley River, and New River. The snowpack and mountains in the area also contribute to the water supply, as melting snow and rainfall runoff from the mountains flow into the streams and rivers. The hydrology in West Virginia is affected by seasonal trends, with higher streamflows and river levels typically occurring in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and increased rainfall. However, drought conditions can also occur, leading to lower water levels in reservoirs and streams. In recent years, there have been record levels of precipitation, causing flooding and damage to some of the state's dams and reservoirs. Overall, the management and maintenance of these reservoirs and dams are critical for ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for West Virginia.

West Virginia is home to numerous reservoirs and dams that play a crucial role in providing water for the state's residents, industries, and agriculture. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Sutton Lake, Summersville Lake, and Bluestone Lake. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Elk River, Gauley River, and New River. The snowpack and mountains in the area also contribute to the water supply, as melting snow and rainfall runoff from the mountains flow into the streams and rivers.

The hydrology in West Virginia is affected by seasonal trends, with higher streamflows and river levels typically occurring in the spring and early summer due to snowmelt and increased rainfall. However, drought conditions can also occur, leading to lower water levels in reservoirs and streams. In recent years, there have been record levels of precipitation, causing flooding and damage to some of the state's dams and reservoirs. Overall, the management and maintenance of these reservoirs and dams are critical for ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for West Virginia.