Storms Help Shasta Lake Rise 19 Feet Over the Past Month

Shasta Lake is seeing significant gains in water levels thanks to two major storms, with another storm on the horizon. Over the past month, the lake has risen 19 feet and is currently at 64% capacity, leaving it about 19.5 feet from full pool.

The Bureau of Reclamation has been releasing water from Shasta Lake since November to prepare for incoming storms and manage water levels effectively. Shasta Lake, which fills primarily from rainfall, can hold up to 4.5 million acre-feet of water. It is currently at 2.9 million acre-feet.

Officials are optimistic about the upcoming storm and hope to see Shasta Lake reach full pool this year. They are closely monitoring rainfall amounts and the rate at which the lake fills to manage potential flooding risks, though no immediate concerns have been raised.

Nearby Trinity Lake, which relies heavily on snowpack for its water levels, is also experiencing a strong start to the rainy season. It is currently at 70% capacity, an unusually high level for this time of year.

For those looking to learn more about Shasta Lake and its impressive dam, the Shasta Dam Visitor’s Center offers free tours daily at 9 a.m., rain or shine. It’s a great opportunity to explore the area during the holiday season while witnessing firsthand the impact of California’s recent storms on its vital water reservoirs.