Written by: Rourke Blignaut
Date Written: 2/21/26
Water is being released from Lake Hodges following days of heavy rain. This was due to the water level nearly reaching a state-mandated safety limit. The dam which is nearly 108 years old was rated unsatisfactory and dangerous if it were to fail. The water is being released into the San Dieguito River and ending up in the ocean near Del Mar. Many people are upset as they consider it to be a waste of water, but the city is working to use as much of the water as possible. The lake also provides water for many local towns such as Rancho Santa Fe, Solana beach, and parts of Encinitas. The dam could be restored however the city does not have enough funding to restore it as of right now.