Lack of rainfall is among the key factors for not extending summer pool levels
Due to below average rainfall across the state for the month of September and current hydrological conditions, the Lake Martin Fall Extension will not be implemented this year.
This decision comes after weeks of closely monitoring conditions, including daily monitoring throughout the month of September. Outlined in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license, four key conditions must be met for the extension to be implemented. These include factors such as precipitation, current lake levels, river and stream flows, and operational conditions.
“We know how much our lake communities enjoy having summer pool levels extended into mid-October,” said Rhett Hanks, Alabama Power’s Shoreline Management team leader. “Unfortunately, the lack of sufficient rainfall this September meant we couldn’t meet the required criteria that is outlined in our operating license to safely implement the extension.”
The company will begin drawing down levels on Lake Martin to a mean sea level elevation of 484 feet as outlined in its hydroelectric license (FERC Project Number 349 – Martin Dam Hydroelectric Project). The mean sea level is a standard reference points used to measure elevation. In this case, it means the lake’s surface will be lowered to 484 feet about average ocean level.
The drawdown process takes several weeks, concluding by the third week of November.
Lowering lake levels each fall helps prepare for the heavy winter and spring rains typical of Alabama weather. This process follows FERC guidelines and is coordinated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Alabama Power encourages everyone to pay close attention to changing conditions on rivers and lakes, being mindful of personal and property safety.
Stay connected! For more information about Alabama Power lakes and levels, visit apcshorelines.com or download the Shorelines app on your mobile device.
