Track water storage, capacity and historical trends for major reservoirs in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and beyond.
Cataract is currently maintaining very healthy storage levels. At 80.4% capacity, the facility is holding 97 GL of water. This indicates a very comfortable buffer for the upcoming dry seasons.
The Cataract River acts as the primary lifeblood for Cataract, making it a cornerstone of the South East Coast (NSW) network. Hydrological health in this specific drainage basin is vital for downstream ecosystems. The South East Coast (NSW) region relies heavily on the seasonal inflows captured here.
Beyond standard municipal supply, Cataract is a vital asset for the regional agricultural economy in New South Wales. Irrigation allocations are directly tied to these storage metrics. Sustainable water management here ensures that both crops and livestock can survive prolonged dry spells.
The surrounding catchment of Cataract also supports diverse local flora and fauna. When capacity allows, Cataract becomes a hub for regional tourism and water sports. Authorities must constantly balance the need for human water consumption with the ecological necessity of maintaining healthy river systems downstream.
With a mild reading of 15°C today, surface evaporation is significantly reduced, helping to preserve current volume. Under current partly cloudy weather, there is no direct rainfall contributing to the immediate storage levels.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of Cataract's water levels will depend heavily on upcoming seasonal rainfall patterns. State water authorities utilize highly sophisticated monitoring tools to ensure every drop is accounted for. Given the unpredictable nature of Australia's climate, from La Niña flooding to El Niño droughts, maintaining a dynamic operational strategy for Cataract is absolutely essential.