Water levels in India’s key reservoirs have risen significantly following excess rainfall in central and south India, providing much-needed relief to the agriculture sector and water-intensive industries. The southwest monsoon, which delivers the majority of India’s rainwater, has brought above-average rainfall, replenishing reservoirs and aquifers. While the rainfall was initially delayed, it has since gained momentum, bringing India’s rainfall deficiency down to 3%.
Heavy winter rains have brought much-needed relief to local mountain communities, as Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead reach impressive water levels. Big Bear Lake has risen by over 14 feet since December 2022, marking its highest levels since 2011. This increase has resulted in reduced algae blooms, enhanced water clarity, and improved fishing conditions. Lake Arrowhead, despite being a private lake, is also experiencing high levels, with its waves spilling onto neighboring walkways. As the summer season approaches, both lakes offer a range of recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.
Lake Oroville, California’s second largest reservoir, has once again reached full capacity after experiencing another wet winter. This marks the second consecutive year that the lake has been filled to the brim, signaling an increase in water levels following a period of drought. The influx of water is attributed to abundant rainfall and snowfall in the region, resulting in a significant increase in the lake’s storage compared to historical levels on this date.
Utah’s spring runoff is bringing much-needed water to the Great Salt Lake, raising hopes for its ecological recovery. The south arm has risen significantly, while the north arm has also seen a notable recovery thanks to the opening of a breach in the causeway. Despite the positive signs, officials emphasize that the lake still has a long way to go before it can be considered ecologically healthy, and efforts to restore it will require a sustained commitment.
After years of drought, California’s reservoirs are experiencing a dramatic recovery thanks to an abnormally wet winter. Lake Shasta, the state’s largest reservoir, has seen its water levels jump nearly 50 feet since the start of the year and is now at 96 percent capacity. While it’s unlikely to reach full capacity, the significant change over the past 18 months is a welcome sight for Californians.
