PG&E held its seasonal planned water operations meeting for Lake Alamanor and Bucks Lake on Wednesday. The company projects that both lakes will have elevated water levels due to carryover storage from last year and an average rainfall and snowpack this season. Officials also state that rapid spring snow melt further contributes to the water levels rising faster than normal. Almanor Lake is projected to be 5 feet above average this summer, matching similar conditions last year.
PG&E reports that to date, the Lake Almanor Basin has received 97% of the average precipitation, and the spring runoff is forecast to be 99% of the average.
Other data, coupled with historical modeling and planned operations, show that PG&E projects Almanor levels will top off at a little above 4,493 feet in late May to early June, draw down slightly by July 4, and reach approximately 4,487 feet by Labor Day.
Just across the way, PG&E says, Bucks Lake benefitted from the late winter storm in May followed by quickly warming temperatures, and is projected to top-off about a month earlier than normal as well as 2 feet higher than average, similar to last year. The lake level is expected to be around 5,154 to 5,153 feet through July 4, and drawing down by 8 to 9 feet to 5,146 to 5,145 feet elevation by Labor Day.
PG&E expects Butt Valley Reservoir to be within its normal operating range this summer.
As you head out to enjoy another year of full lakes, you are encouraged to practice safe water recreation. For water safety tips, you can visit pg&e’s water safety webpage. www.pge.com/watersafety
- Obey all warning signs and restrictive buoys while swimming or boating.
- Use the “buddy system.” Never fish, swim, boat, or raft alone.
- Don’t dive or jump into unfamiliar water. Shallow water or submerged trees or rocks could cause serious injury.
- Swimming in open water is more difficult than in a swimming pool – people tire more quickly and can get into trouble.
- Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Actively supervise children in and around open bodies of water, giving them your undivided attention. Do not assume that someone is watching them.
- Appoint a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults.
