Knoxville, TN – The Tennessee Valley Authority is warning boaters and holiday travelers to use extra caution on regional lakes this Memorial Day weekend as drought conditions continue lowering water levels across much of the Southeast.
According to TVA, significantly below-normal rainfall this spring has left many lakes across the Tennessee Valley several feet below their target summer pool levels.
Officials said major tributary lakes including Norris, Douglas, Cherokee, Fontana, South Holston, Watauga, Boone, Blue Ridge, Chatuge, Nottely, and Hiwassee are all currently running below normal elevations.
Lakes along the main Tennessee River system, including Fort Loudoun, Watts Bar, and Chickamauga, are also lower than typical for late May.
While rainfall is forecast across the region over the next several days, TVA said the rain is expected to be spread out and may not significantly improve lake levels, particularly at reservoirs already well below target elevations.
Boaters are being urged to remain alert for exposed rocks, submerged debris, sandbars, and unexpectedly shallow water conditions that may create hazards during the busy holiday weekend.
Officials also encouraged visitors to check current lake conditions before traveling and use TVA’s Lake Info app for updated water level and boating information.
The warning comes as millions of travelers across Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, and surrounding states prepare for one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.
TVA officials stressed that changing lake conditions could affect navigation, launching areas, and shoreline access at some recreational locations across the Tennessee Valley.
