SPR at Risk: Oil Reserve Hits Crisis Low | Boise News

The Strategic Petroleum Reserve is running dangerously low—under 290 million barrels, its lowest since 1982—after both Trump and Biden tapped it for energy security. Stored in caverns along the Gulf Coast, the reserve’s physical limits are being pushed as oil extraction causes water levels to rise, risking structural damage. Experts warn safe operations can’t go below 250 million barrels, and current legal thresholds already restrict withdrawals if levels dip further. Refilling, possibly with Venezuelan oil, could take years—even with funding and deals in place—and existing infrastructure is aging. With less buffer against supply shocks, markets face volatility, and if reserves are stretched even thinner, oil prices will likely climb, forcing everyone to cut back on usage. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/801807be850b6405