Whiskeytown Lake Increases Water Flows Ahead of Incoming Storms

Whiskeytown Lake managers are adjusting water operations ahead of a new round of storms expected to arrive in Northern California next week.

The lake is currently releasing about 250 cubic feet per second of water under normal winter operations. Later this week, that outflow will be bumped up slightly to 275 CFS as rain moves into the forecast. The change is part of routine seasonal management designed to create space in the reservoir before heavier precipitation arrives.

While December has been relatively dry so far, weather models show a more active pattern over the next 10 days. Even so, lake officials note that it typically takes multiple strong storms to make a noticeable dent in reservoir levels. Rainfall alone isn’t enough—Whiskeytown relies heavily on runoff from surrounding tributaries, including Clear Creek, to refill the lake.

Visitors may notice exposed shoreline and muddy banks around Whiskeytown right now, but officials say that’s typical for this time of year. The lake is intentionally drawn down each winter to reduce flood risk and prepare for incoming storms, with water levels fluctuating annually as part of long-term operations.