https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-strategic-petroleum-reserve-hasn-t-been-this-low-since-reagan-was-filling-it-in-1982-critics-wonder-how-low-is-too-lContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-strategic-petroleum-reserve-hasn-t-been-this-low-since-reagan-was-filling-it-in-1982-critics-wonder-how-low-is-too-lhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/the-strategic-petroleum-reserve-hasn-t-been-this-low-since-reagan-was-filling-it-in-1982-critics-wonder-how-low-is-too-l#u44995Tue, 18 Aug 2026 23:30:56 +0000The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve has dropped to its lowest level since 1982, sparking concerns about damage to caverns and operations. The reserve, which stores oil in 60 underground salt caverns, has been declining amid high demand and low replenishment. Critics are questioning how low is too low for the reserve. The current level may threaten the structural integrity of the caverns.Why it mattersThe Strategic Petroleum Reserve was established to provide a buffer against oil supply disruptions. Its decline raises concerns about the country's ability to respond to future crises. The res