Huge California lake nears storage capacity; State to begin tweaking water releases downstream

Additionally, minor water flow from drains built into the emergency spillway may occur, a phenomenon deemed normal by the DWR.Photo byManny BecerraonUnsplash

The Department of Water Resources (DWR) continues to closely monitor and manage water releases from Lake Oroville as the reservoir reaches its peak storage capacity. Currently, Lake Oroville stands at an elevation of 898 feet, with storage levels hovering around 3.52 million acre-feet. This equates to 99% of the reservoir's total capacity and 126% of the historical average.

In response to these heightened levels, the DWR has implemented adjustments to water releases to ensure the safety and stability of the reservoir and surrounding areas. The total Feather River water releases are currently set at 2,300 cubic feet per second, with specific allocations as follows:

• Feather River flows through Oroville: 650 cubic feet per second.
• Releases through the Thermalito Afterbay River Outlet: 1,650 cubic feet per second.

In anticipation of potential changes in water levels, the DWR has announced the possibility of reducing total Feather River releases over the upcoming weekend.

As Lake Oroville approaches full capacity, the DWR has cautioned that windy conditions may lead to water splashing onto and over the crest of the emergency spillway. Additionally, minor water flow from drains built into the emergency spillway may occur, a phenomenon deemed normal by the DWR.

Residents and visitors in the vicinity of Lake Oroville are advised to remain vigilant and heed any updates or directives issued by the DWR regarding water releases and reservoir conditions. Maintaining awareness of changing water levels and safety protocols is paramount to ensuring the well-being of all individuals in the affected areas.