Aerial view of the recently completed Lake Oroville main spillway in January 2019. DWR/2019
SACRAMENTO, Calif.– DWR is closely monitoring Oroville reservoir levels and current forecasts. DWR will update the public, media and local partners through emails, news releases and social media.
The information provided below reflect estimates at the time of sending. Forecasts can quickly change and may affect the estimates provided.
- Current Oroville Reservoir levels: 792 feet
- Projected Elevation on March 9 based on 10-day forecast: 830 feet
- Current Oroville Reservoir Capacity: 58% of total capacity
The flood operations plan calls for a target elevation of 835.5 feet through the end of February and as low as 848 feet by the end of March. DWR will allow the lake to continue rising past 848 feet through the late spring and summer months to build up water supply storage and offer recreational opportunities.
If the lake begins to rise very quickly in the coming weeks due to large storms and increased inflows, DWR may consider using outflow mechanisms, including Hyatt Powerplant and the main spillway, to manage lake levels.
If the main spillway needs to be used to manage lake levels and ensure flood protection of the surrounding communities, it and the emergency spillway are both reconstructed and able to handle flows. Crews have removed equipment from the main spillway to be prepared for potential use. DWR will continue updating the public, media and local partners.
To sign up for community notifications, contact oroville@water.ca.gov
Media should contact media@water.ca.gov to be added to DWR’s media list
Follow DWR onTwitter and Facebook
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Contact:
Erin Mellon, Assistant Director, Public Affairs Office, Department of Water Resources
916-704-5529 |erin.mellon@water.ca.gov