WATER: Target elevation for lake expected to be achieved in a week
mation officer Lauren Bisnett said in an email Monday.
“Looking ahead, DWR’s goal is to have a fully functional spillway before next winter begins and we’ll be working round-theclock through spring, summer, and fall to make that happen. Within the next few weeks, DWR intends to have narrowed the approach for next winter to several options.”
Outflows from the Oroville Dam flood control spillway are currently at 40,000 cubic feet per second and are expected to remain steady for another week or so to make room for rainwater or snowmelt. Boaters, anglers, and others who use the river are advised to be aware of swifter river conditions. The total flow to the Feather River is approximately 48,000 cfs. DWR advises the public to avoid the river for the next week.
“The objective of releasing water through the flood control spillway is to manage lake levels to allow for sufficient storage in Lake Oroville to take on more water from rain or snowmelt,” Bisnett said. “The target elevation for the lake levels is 835 feet to 840 feet, which is expected to be achieved within a week based on forecasting and modeling.”
Flows from the Hyatt Powerplant are around 6,750 cfs, according to a DWR press release, and inflows to the lake are between 16,000 cfs and 25,000 cfs. Lake elevation is 856 feet, 45 feet below the emergency spillway.
Boaters on Lake Oroville are advised that as a result of the current outflows lake levels are dropping approximately 4 feet per day.
The National Weather Service said in a press release that there is potential for thunderstorms this afternoon with large hail and isolated tornadoes. Rainfall will decrease Wednesday in the valley with light snow continuing over the mountains, with snow falling at the 5,000 foot level.
Thursday is expected to be dry, with the next storm system moving in Friday and Saturday. That system may be wetter and colder with urban and small stream flooding potential, according to the press release.
CONTACT