"Dominion Energy understands the community may have concerns about current water levels at Roanoke River and Lake Gaston, particularly as we move into the summer season, and we wanted to share an update on conditions.

The water levels at Roanoke Rapids and Gaston lakes are lower than normal and these levels are expected to continue until the region receives significant rainfall. The watershed of the Roanoke River is presently classified as experiencing Severe to Extreme Drought by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service. Additionally, local stream and groundwater inflows into Lake Gaston and Roanoke Rapids Lake, which normally provide additional water, have been zero or negative due to evaporation in combination with the drought conditions.

Additionally, Dominion Energy is required to provide flows to support spring fish spawning between April 1st and June 15th which limits options for retaining water in the lakes. Dominion Energy is also working closely and coordinating with the Army Corps of Engineers on releases from Kerr dam to support fish spawning and other regulatory and operational requirements. The lakes are still operating within federally permitted limits but may stay below the range you're accustomed to for summer recreation."

Corwin Chamberlain
Hydro/Renewables System Support Consultant
Dominion Energy
600 Canal Place
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Mobile: 804-837-5587
corwin.d.chamberlain@dominionenergy.com