Visitors urged to use caution in the Lake Berryessa Recreation Area
Morning Glory Spillway, February 5, 2025
NAPA, Calif. –Lake Berryessa’s water level reached 440’ above sea level on Feb. 4 reaching the Monticello Dam’s Morning Glory spillway. This rise is significant when coupled with the fire-damaged surroundings. Reclamation employees would like to offer visitors to the Berryessa region some guidance for a safe visit.
Driving
Roads surrounding Lake Berryessa experience rock and debris slides and occasional undermining. Additional slides from freezing and thawing are expected when cold nights are followed by warm days. Check road and weather conditions prior to starting a trip, drive slowly, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Look for rocks, wildlife, and spectators on the move in our region. Consider timing your visit during weekdays when there is less visitation.
Boaters are Advised to Navigate with Caution
Burned areas from the 2020 LNU Lighting Complex fire surround Lake Berryessa. The runoff entering Lake Berryessa from these upstream locations is thick with silt and downed trees. Boaters are advised to use extreme caution when navigating the reservoir. The lake turbidity has resulted in poor visibility of submerged and floating hazards.
Shoreline Failure
Individuals observing the lake from the shoreline should be aware that quickly rising waters may weaken and undermine shorelines around the lake. Keep some distance between yourself and the shoreline, observe changes to your footing, and remain on maintained roadways and trails whenever possible.
Hypothermia
Should you, or a member of your party, suddenly find themselves exposed to Lake Berryessa’s cold water, know that the cold water temperature can lead to potentially life-threatening hypothermia. Symptoms include shivering, slurred speech, apathy, disorientation, drowsiness, and unconsciousness. Anyone who exhibits these symptoms should be moved into a warm or sheltered area immediately. Other steps that can assist with recovery include removing wet clothing and replacing it with dry clothes, a sleeping bag, or blankets and consuming a warm, nonalcoholic beverage if conscious.
If you would like more information, contact the Lake Berryessa Field Office at 707-905-7896.
Visit the Lake Berryessa website at https://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/berryessa/ for additional information.
