Due to a recent unusually wet winter, Lake Tahoe is expected to fill to capacity for the first time in five years.
The lake last filled in June 2019, but snowmelt this spring should be enough to fill it, according to a USDA report released this month.
The report, which analyzed water supplies in parts of Nevada and California’s eastern mountains, said once full, the lakes typically have enough water stored to last three years, even if future snowpack is below normal.
“The water year continues into September, but there are already chances of victory on this year’s report card, especially in northern Nevada,” the report states.
The report noted that this winter’s peak snowpack was above the median due to heavy precipitation in January, February and March. Despite a dry April and record snowmelt, May snowpack remained above normal.
In addition, higher soil moisture is expected to “contribute to efficient runoff.” The report suggests that late melting of last year’s snow, aided by midsummer Hurricane Hillary, will help keep water levels well above normal in 2024.
“All in all, the final report card for the 2024 water year is expected to be an A grade,” the report states.
The difference between A- and A+ may depend on the amount of spring precipitation in the area, the report said.
A storm in early May added significant precipitation, but additional precipitation will be needed after a dry April, the report noted.
This treasured tourist destination has had its ups and downs. Over the past few years, due to climate change and drought, the lake’s water levels have dropped so low that water no longer flows into the Truckee River and salmon are no longer spawning in the main tributary.
Experts previously told The Times that water levels typically range between the lake’s natural edge, which is 6,223 feet high, and the Truckee River’s crest dam, which is 6 feet higher.
Lake Tahoe’s water levels are always fluctuating. It’s usually lowest in December and January, then increases in spring as melting snow from nearby mountains flows down.
