The year 2008 began with the Triangle in the grips of a pervasive drought. On Jan. 1, 2008, water levels at Jordan Lake had reached their lowest point of the year, with the pool level of the lake measuring 213.27 feet.

Still, that number was above the low-water mark of 210.19 feet reached on Oct. 23, 2007. The top of the conservation pool — the “normal” elevation for the lake — is 216 feet.

Last year’s low water kept many of the lake’s recreational users away until conditions improved and forced discussions about water supply and conservation in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and towns farther west. For many, those discussions continue despite a turning of the tide.

Rainfall totals received a boost later in 2008, thanks in part to Tropical Storm Hanna. Still, according to data from the National Weather Service, western Wake County ended the year with less than the average annual total of 50 inches of precipitation.

On New Year’s Day, Jordan Lake reached its highest level so far this year, measuring at 216.79 feet. On Monday at 7 a.m., the lake level was just slightly lower at 216.63 feet.