KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – The Tennessee Valley Authority says drought conditions continue across much of East Tennessee, even after recent rainfall.
TVA officials report runoff levels—water that reaches streams, rivers, and lakes—remain extremely low. In fact, runoff across the eastern Tennessee Valley ranks as the fourth lowest recorded in 152 years.
Since Memorial Day weekend, the region has seen about three-and-a-half inches of rain. However, only about a half-inch of that rainfall has made its way into the river system.
TVA River Management General Manager James Everett says the low runoff is already impacting lake levels, which are expected to gradually decline throughout the summer.
Everett warns that dropping water levels could expose hidden hazards and shallow areas, posing risks for boaters. Officials encourage anyone on the water to remain within channel markers and stay alert for changing conditions.
Low water levels have been an ongoing issue this year. TVA has been conserving water since February in an effort to bring reservoirs closer to typical summer levels.
Boaters and residents can check current lake levels and drought conditions online through TVA’s website https://www.tva.com/environment/lake-levels.
