City to Release Water from Lake Hodges After Heavy Rainfall

Controlled release aims to maintain reservoir levels and protect downstream communities

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The city of San Diego announced it will be releasing water from the Lake Hodges reservoir into the San Dieguito River after significant rainfall in the area. This controlled release is required by the state's Division of Safety of Dams to keep the reservoir below 280 feet elevation and ensure the safe operation of the Hodges Dam.

Why it matters

The release of water from Lake Hodges is a necessary safety measure to protect downstream communities in the event of heavy rainfall and potential dam overflow. The city is coordinating with local water districts to maximize the beneficial use of the released water.

The details

The Hodges Reservoir covers 1,234 acres and has a water storage capacity of 30,251 acre-feet. The Lake Hodges Dam was built in 1918 and purchased by the city in 1925. The state's Division of Safety of Dams requires the city to keep the reservoir below 280 feet elevation, which is 35 feet below the dam's spillway. The water will be released in a controlled manner and directed into the San Dieguito River channel.

  • The city announced the water release on February 18, 2026.

The players

City of San Diego

The local government responsible for managing the Lake Hodges reservoir and coordinating the water release.

Division of Safety of Dams

The state agency that requires the city to maintain the Hodges Reservoir below a certain elevation to ensure the safe operation of the dam.

Santa Fe Irrigation District

A local water district that the city is coordinating with to maximize the beneficial use of the released water.

San Dieguito Water District

A local water district that the city is coordinating with to maximize the beneficial use of the released water.

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What’s next

The city will continue to monitor the reservoir levels and coordinate with local water districts to ensure the controlled release of water from Lake Hodges is effective in maintaining safety and maximizing beneficial use.

The takeaway

This water release from Lake Hodges is a proactive measure by the city to protect downstream communities and comply with state safety regulations in the face of heavy rainfall. It highlights the importance of effective water management and coordination between local authorities and water districts to ensure public safety and efficient resource utilization.