The drought management plan was developed based on scientific data and in coordination with various state, federal, local agencies and public input. To view the chart for trigger action levels, visit Drought Trigger Action Levels. The pool elevations at J. Strom Thurmond and Hartwell initially fell below Drought Trigger Level 1 Dec. 5, 2025. The Corps of Engineers limits outflow from Thurmond Dam to a daily average of 4,000 cfs after entering Drought Trigger Level 2. “We will continue to maintain reduced releases in accordance with our Savannah River Basin Drought Management Plan.