Feb. 14, 2025- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has come out with an update on expectations for lake levels at Arkabutla Lake, given the breach emergency status first issued in 2023 when a depression was discovered near the toe of the Arkabutla Dam.
Recent storms have brought significant rainfall to the Arkabutla Lake area, pushing lake levels above 210 feet and prompting expectations that they will exceed 220 feet within the next two weeks, depending on where and when the rain falls. Pool levels at Arkabutla Dam in DeSoto and Tate counties can fluctuate quickly especially during the rainy season.
The Corps has been maintaining the lake at approximately 204 feet to reduce pressure on the dam and to complete repairs. The Corps will continue to draw down the increased pool levels with releases up to 4,500 cfs until the level reaches the 204 feet target level.
Coldwater River levels below the dam in and around Marks are expected to reach flood stages early next week. The area saw similar conditions on Jan. 10 when levels crested at 39.6 ft. in Marks. The Corps is coordinating with the National Weather Service and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency to maximize public awareness in affected areas.
Corps officials added the physical condition of the dam remains unchanged, and a dam breach is NOT imminent.
With spring flood season underway and the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal outlook predicting higher-than-average rainfall, the lake and downstream communities are likely to experience more frequent and broader changes in pool and river levels during this time.
Highway 51 Landing provides boating access into the Coldwater River above Arkabutla Dam and will remain the only open boat ramp at Arkabutla Lake. Camping and other recreational use of the Arkabutla Lake area remain open, except for day use and fee use areas directly downstream of the dam.
