UPDATE: Northern California’s reservoirs are experiencing a significant surge in water levels due to intense storms, with officials confirming an urgent rise in lakes across the region. Just days after a powerful series of atmospheric rivers began impacting the area, state and local water agencies report dramatic increases in reservoir capacities.
As of December 25, 2023, Lake Shasta, the largest reservoir in California, has seen an astonishing increase of 16 feet in just six days, climbing from approximately 994 feet to 1,010 feet. This surge positions Lake Shasta above the historical average for this time of year, marking a critical moment for flood control, water supply, and hydropower in the state, according to the California Department of Water Resources.
Closer to the Bay Area, Lake Berryessa has also been affected, witnessing over 5 inches of rain since the storms hit on December 19. The water level at Lake Berryessa rose by more than a foot, reaching approximately 430.94 feet as of Friday morning, just shy of its capacity of 440 feet. Local water officials from the Solano County Water Agency are closely monitoring the situation as the ground around the lake has become saturated, indicating that any future rainfall will likely lead to even higher lake levels.
The implications of these rising waters are significant for local communities, as increased runoff can lead to flooding and impact water quality. Residents are urged to stay informed about the potential for even more rain in the coming days as December storms continue to impact the region.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service and NOAA have provided mixed precipitation outlooks for January. While Northern and Central California may see continued storm activity, conditions are predicted to be drier in Southern California due to a weak La Niña pattern. This variability means that while immediate conditions are favorable for reservoir levels, the long-term outlook remains uncertain.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to monitor updates from local water agencies and stay prepared for any potential flooding or water management advisories. For the latest information on Lake Berryessa, visit the Solano County Water Agency’s monitoring page at scwamonitoring.com/LakeBerryessa/.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this story evolves and impacts continue to unfold across Northern California.
