JACKSON, Wyo. — The Bureau of Reclamation will host an annual informational meeting to present streamflow forecasts and projected reservoir operations for Jackson Lake Dam and other upper Snake River reservoirs on Thursday, May 23, at the Teton County Library’s Ordway Auditorium at 3 p.m.
The meeting will focus primarily on the runoff forecast for the Snake River headwaters watershed, near Heise, Idaho, water supply outlook, river flow management and snowpack conditions.
The Snake River’s water levels are typically higher in the spring and early summer due to spring temperatures and snowmelt. Total water precipitation in the Snake River headwaters is at 96% of average to date, and current snowpack in river’s headwaters is at 93% of average, according to the Bureau of Reclamation.
The Bureau of Reclamation reported to Buckrail that the Snake River runoff forecast is currently 93% of average, and the current storage in Jackson Lake is at 82% of capacity. The lake is expected to reach approximately full in June (lake elevation 6,769 feet), with moderate demand for storage releases over the summer. The lake level in the fall is anticipated to reach approximately 76% full (lake elevation 6,761 feet).
Currently, the potential for flooding along the Snake River in Teton County is low. This assessment takes into consideration possible Jackson Lake Dam releases and inflows from downstream tributaries. The tributaries might experience high flows, and caution is advised in these areas during snowmelt season.
Flood operations are determined by a forecast coordinated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Reclamation for the Snake River above Heise.
Flooding potential will be discussed in the upcoming meeting on May 23. In-person and virtual options will be offered.
