WEST-VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

West Virginia's dams and reservoirs are crucial for flood control, water supply, and recreational purposes. Recent data from the state's water monitoring systems indicate that most reservoirs are at or near their average gage heights for the season. For instance, the South Mill Creek near Mozer is slightly below its average at 8 feet compared to the usual 9.01 feet. Similarly, Whetstone Run near Mannington, Dunkard Fork near Majorsville, North Fork Hughes River near Cairo, and Middle Fork Brush Creek at Edison are all within close range of their average levels, demonstrating standard water storage conditions for this time of the year. However, Tug Fork at Statts Mills is marginally above its average gage height at 51 feet, which may point to increased runoff or precipitation in the area.

The current state of West Virginia's dams and reservoirs doesn't raise significant concerns for abnormal conditions. The slight variations from the average gage heights, such as the lower level at South Mill Creek and the higher level at Tug Fork, could be attributed to local variations in precipitation or changes in upstream water usage. Marlin Run at Marlinton, Dry Creek at Tuckahoe, and Mud River at Palermo are all reported at expected gage heights, suggesting stable conditions. Given the data, there is no immediate indication that snowpack or river flows are contributing to abnormal reservoir levels. Nevertheless, continued monitoring is essential, as these conditions could change rapidly with weather events or seasonal trends. The state's water management authorities likely have protocols in place to adjust for any significant deviations from the norm to ensure the continued safety and efficacy of these vital water resources.

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.