Rangers and staff at John H. Kerr Reservoir have received several inquiries regarding the lake elevation and current low water condition. Right now, water levels at Kerr Reservoir have dropped because much of the Roanoke River Basin has had a lot less rain than normal. Because much of the basin has been dry, less water is flowing into the reservoir — and that means the lake elevation is slowly going down. We manage the reservoir for a target elevation of 295.5 feet above mean sea level (msl) in the months of January and February, per the guide curve, with the current elevation being 294.7 feet msl on Thursday, 15 January 2026.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers monitors lake levels, rainfall, and inflows every day. We work with state and local partners to manage water carefully, addressing both upstream and downstream water resource needs and impacts, and make sure any changes happen responsibly. If you have questions or concerns please call the Visitor Assistance Center at 434-738-6143.
Before heading to Kerr Reservoir:
- Check this John H. Kerr Reservoir Facebook page for current ramp and facility status
- Slow down on the water
- Watch for shallow areas and underwater hazards
- Always wear a life jacket
Water Control Plan: https://www.saw.usace.army.mil/…/john…/JOHNHKERR_WCP.pdf
Lake Elevation & Guide Curve: https://epec.saw.usace.army.mil/
