WEST-VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: March 13, 2026

In the latest assessment of West Virginia's dam and reservoir conditions, based on recent observations, several facilities are showing variances from their average storage levels. The South Mill Creek near Mozer reports a gage height of 8 feet, slightly lower than its average of 9.01 feet, while Whetstone Run near Mannington shows an increase with a current gage height of 14 feet against an average of 13.47 feet. Notably, Dunkard Fork near Majorsville is experiencing higher-than-average water levels, with a measurement of 45 feet compared to its usual 41.2 feet. Other reservoirs such as North Fork Hughes River near Cairo, Tug Fork at Statts Mills, Middle Fork Brush Creek at Edison, and Marlin Run at Marlinton are close to their average levels, with minor fluctuations that appear within normal seasonal variations. Dry Creek at Tuckahoe and Mud River at Palermo are also reporting stable conditions in line with their respective averages.

The observed fluctuations in some reservoirs could be attributed to variations in local precipitation, river flows, and potentially changes in snowpack levels in the preceding months. Dunkard Fork's elevated gage height is particularly noteworthy and may suggest recent heavy rainfall or snowmelt contributing to increased inflow. On the other hand, the lower levels at South Mill Creek could point to a period of reduced precipitation or increased water usage downstream. It's crucial to monitor these conditions continuously, as these anomalies could impact water management strategies, flood control efforts, and the overall health of the aquatic ecosystems. Although the current changes are not extreme, continued observation will ensure any potential risks are identified and mitigated in a timely manner.

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.