Track water storage, capacity and historical trends for major reservoirs in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and beyond.
The current volume at Serpentine is running lower than standard operational thresholds. At 31.1%, the facility only holds 138 GL. This lower-than-average capacity may trigger preliminary water-saving advisories in Western Australia if dry conditions persist.
Fed primarily by the Serpentine River, this reservoir plays a critical role in the South West Coast drainage division. Hydrological health in this specific drainage basin is vital for downstream ecosystems. The South West Coast region relies heavily on the seasonal inflows captured here.
Agriculture in the surrounding areas of Western Australia depends heavily on the water security provided by Serpentine. The local economy, heavily rooted in agriculture, fluctuates in tandem with the health of this reservoir. Without the buffer provided by this massive 138 GL storage, regional farming would face extreme volatility.
Ecologically, the reservoir and its immediate wetlands serve as a crucial habitat for native Australian wildlife. When capacity allows, Serpentine becomes a hub for regional tourism and water sports. However, environmental flow releases must be carefully balanced to protect downstream river health.
With a mild reading of 8°C today, surface evaporation is significantly reduced, helping to preserve current volume. With 0mm of recent rainfall and clear sky skies, the catchment is relatively dry today.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of Serpentine'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 Serpentine is absolutely essential.