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California Lakes Surge, But Water Supply Still Risky

2/19/2026

34 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Lake Oroville and Lake Shasta rose due to winter storms, at 853.75 feet (128% of historical average) and 1,030.99 feet (113% of historical average), respectively.
The storms delivered heavy snowfall to higher elevations and rain to lower areas, raising water levels.
Officials from the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) caution that more sustained precipitation is needed to secure the state’s water supply as it approaches warmer months.

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Story summary

Lake Oroville and Lake Shasta rose due to winter storms, at 853.75 feet (128% of historical average) and 1,030.99 feet (113% of historical average), respectively.
The storms delivered heavy snowfall to higher elevations and rain to lower areas, raising water levels.
Officials from the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) caution that more sustained precipitation is needed to secure the state’s water supply as it approaches warmer months.