Cold weather could result in rapid water level changes downstream of Claytor and Leesville dams

ROANOKE, Va., Jan. 16, 2026 - Water levels on the New and Roanoke rivers could rise rapidly starting Monday, January 19, and may fluctuate through the week. Appalachian Power Company (APCo) is alerting boaters, fishermen and other recreational users downstream of Claytor and Leesville dams to be prepared for changing conditions.

The National Weather Service is forecasting frigid temperatures next week, and PJM, the independent regional transmission organization that manages the electric grid in 13 states, has notified APCo that it may need to increase power generation at its hydroelectric plants to maintain the reliability of the regional electric grid if called upon to do so. Current water levels at Smith Mountain Project and Claytor Dam will not affect APCo's ability to generate power.

Below Claytor Dam, water levels could increase up to two feet in a matter of minutes. Water levels below Leesville Dam could increase as much as eight feet over seven hours. Those considering recreating on the rivers should monitor AEP's website for additional information and follow the Smith Mountain Project and Claytor Facebook pages for updates.

Located on the New River in Pulaski County, the Claytor Dam is operated by APCo. The total installed electric generating capacity of the plant is 76 megawatts. Leesville Dam, with a generating capacity of 50 megawatts, is part of the Smith Mountain Project, a 636-megawatt pumped storage hydroelectric facility on the Roanoke River.