Reservoirs accommodate variations in water flow by acting as a buffer that can store and release water as needed. During periods of high water flow, such as heavy rainfall or snowmelt, they capture and store excess water. This stored water can then be released gradually during drier periods to meet various needs, including water supply, agricultural irrigation, flood control, and power generation.
Reservoir operators have the flexibility to adjust the release rates to match changing demands, helping to balance the availability of water resources and maintain a reliable supply. Reservoirs act as a buffer against seasonal variations, ensuring a consistent and stable water source, even when natural water flow is highly variable.
