According to BC Hydro, the forecasted runoff for the Columbia Basin at The Dalles, Oregon, between April and September 2025 is expected to reach 86 per cent of normal levels.
This marks a notable increase from the 2024 runoff, which was recorded at 74 per cent of normal for the same period.
The Dalles, located on the Columbia River in northern Oregon, is a key measurement point for runoff volumes in the basin.
It serves as a major indicator for how much water is flowing through the entire Columbia River system, including parts of British Columbia.
This makes it a critical reference for managing reservoir levels, hydroelectric operations, and environmental planning throughout the region.
Reservoir levels in the Columbia Basin remain subject to change, influenced by snowpack, inflow, weather, and energy demand.
As of May 9, the Arrow Lakes Reservoir, measured at the Fauquier gauge, is sitting at 431 metres.
Over the past week, it has risen by just over one metre.
BC Hydro forecasts that the reservoir will climb to 435 metres by the end of May.
However, officials caution that short- and long-term forecasts remain uncertain due to the unpredictable nature of environmental conditions.
In 2024, Arrow Lakes reached its most recent peak elevation of 437 metres on June 28 and dropped to a minimum of 423 metres on Jan. 31, 2025.
The Duncan Reservoir has also seen gains, currently measuring 552 metres at the dam as of May 9.
According to BC Hydro, it rose two metres over the past week and is projected to reach 559 metres by month-end.
The Duncan Dam is located just north of the community of Meadow Creek, at the north end of Kootenay Lake.
It plays a key role in regulating flow into the Kootenay River and supporting downstream hydroelectric operations.
The Duncan reservoir reached its most recent high of 573 metres on Aug. 4, 2024, and dropped to a low of 549 metres on April 25 this year.
Meanwhile, BC Hydro has announced a temporary closure of the navigation lock at the Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam for maintenance.
The closure begins at 4 p.m. on Monday, May 19 and will last until 8 a.m. on Monday, June 16.
During regular operations, the lock is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the final cycle beginning at 3:30 p.m. daily.
Located near Castlegar, the Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam plays a central role in managing water levels on the Arrow Lakes Reservoir.
While it does not generate power directly, the dam regulates flow for downstream hydroelectric stations and supports flood control under the Columbia River Treaty.
As summer nears, recreational facilities are gearing up for the season.
The Buckley Day Use Area and boat ramp near Seven Mile Dam will open on Thursday, May 15 and remain accessible until Tuesday, Sept. 30.
Located on the Pend d’Oreille Reservoir, the Buckley Campground accommodates over 29,000 visitors each year and features 22 campsites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, free of charge.
Visitors are advised that parking is limited.
Lastly, BC Hydro will host its annual Columbia Basin operations update meetings virtually this year.
The East Kootenay meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., while the Columbia and Duncan update will take place on Wednesday, June 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
BC Hydro said registration details will be shared soon.
