Real-Time Dam Levels
Across Australia

Track water storage, capacity and historical trends for major reservoirs in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and beyond.

60.4% National average
303 Dams tracked
87,729 GL Total capacity
19 Jul 2026 Last Updated
Cataract Water Level

Cataract Water Level

New South Wales · Sydney
Reviewed by Water Resources Analyst
Hydrological Summary: Cataract currently stores 80.4% of its total 97 GL capacity. Located in NSW and operated by WaterNSW, it is a critical water source for regional supply and irrigation.
Data officially sourced and updated from New South Wales water authorities. Last dataset update: 2026-07-17 19:45:00
Current Storage Level 80.4%
Total Capacity
97 GL
Status
Normal / Safe
Operator
WaterNSW
Last Updated
17 Jul 2026
Live Weather
15°C Partly cloudy
Rain: 0mm | Hum: 70%

Water Level Analysis

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.

Catchment & Hydrological Impact

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.

Agricultural & Economic Significance

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.

Ecological & Recreational Context

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.

Current Weather & Evaporation Impact

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.

Future Outlook & Monitoring

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water level of Cataract?
As of the latest official reading, the water level at Cataract is at 80.4% of its total capacity.
Is Cataract currently full?
It is partially full, currently holding steady at 80.4%.
What is the maximum water capacity of Cataract?
When completely full (100%), Cataract can hold up to 97 Gigalitres (GL) of water.
Where is Cataract located?
This reservoir is a critical water storage facility located in the state of New South Wales, Australia.
How does the water level at Cataract affect local agriculture?
Water levels dictate the irrigation allocations for surrounding farmlands. A healthy level of 80.4% ensures that local farmers have the necessary water security for their seasonal crops and livestock.
Who manages the data for Cataract?
The data is sourced from official government authorities including the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and specific state water utilities.

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