APCo asks public to use caution near Smith Mountain Lake

ROANOKE, Va., Jan. 13, 2026 - Prolonged dry weather and below-average precipitation have led to a lower-than-normal lake level at Appalachian Power Company's (APCo) Smith Mountain Project. With winter fishing and other lake activities underway, APCo urges the public to exercise caution around Smith Mountain Lake. Some boat ramps and launch areas may be temporarily inaccessible due to reduced water levels.

"Lake levels depend heavily on rainfall, and we've been experiencing drought conditions for some time," said Dwain Bever, energy production superintendent at the Smith Mountain Project. "We encourage anyone using the lake recreationally to be careful with shallow areas and the shoals that may not normally come into play."

National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) data through Jan. 13 show that daily precipitation has remained below 2 inches since May 14, 2025; daily totals have not exceeded 1 inch since Aug. 3, 2025.

Safety and access information

• CHECK ramp and launch conditions before traveling. Some ramps may be unusable or only usable at certain tides or water levels.
• FOLLOW posted closure signs and barricades. Do not move or ignore safety barriers.
• WEAR a life jacket whenever on or near the water.
• AVOID walking on exposed or muddy lakebeds where hazardous drop-offs and unstable ground may exist, and fish from designated, safe locations.
• WATCH for newly exposed hazards (rocks, stumps) and navigational changes; reduce speed and keep a safe distance from shorelines with steep drop-offs.
• REPORT hazards or concerns to local law enforcement or APCo at 1-800-956-4237.

There are no anticipated impacts to the company's ability to generate safe and reliable power. The company provides current lake levels on the Smith Mountain Project's website.