WEST-VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

In the latest observations of West Virginia's dams and reservoirs, the overall storage levels, as indicated by gage heights, are maintaining near-average conditions for the majority of sites. South Mill Creek near Mozer and Whetstone Run near Mannington both show a slight decrease in gage height from their averages, recording 8 and 13 feet respectively, against the ordinary levels of 9.01 and 13.47 feet. Dams such as Dunkard Fork near Majorsville, North Fork Hughes River near Cairo, and Dry Creek at Tuckahoe are also reporting gage heights just below their average readings by margins less than 2 feet. Conversely, the Tug Fork at Statts Mills exhibits a small increase over its average gage height, presenting a reading of 51 feet in comparison to its average of 50.52 feet. These minor deviations from the norm are not currently indicative of extreme or abnormal conditions.

In depth, the consistency in gage heights suggests a stable hydrologic condition across the state's water storage infrastructure. The minimal variances observed may be influenced by recent weather patterns, local precipitation, or changes in upstream river flows. None of the reviewed dams are experiencing abnormal conditions that could raise immediate concerns for this time of the year, where snowpack melting or heavy rains could drastically influence water levels. It is important to cross-reference these observations with multiple data sources, such as local news reports and environmental monitoring agencies, to provide a comprehensive assessment of the water resource management situation. "This week in West Virginia history - The Coal Valley News" along with reports from E&E News regarding weather impacts in the broader region must be considered for a broader hydrological context. As of the last reported observations on December 24, 2025, West Virginia's water reservoirs and dams are operating within expected seasonal levels, and there are no immediate signs of the dramatic water-related events such as those observed in Northern California, as reported by POLITICO Pro. It should still be noted that environmental conditions are subject to change, and ongoing vigilance by authorities and stakeholders is essential to address any potential water management issues that may arise.

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.