Lake Travis is full for the first time since 2019 due to heavy rainfall in recent days. Here’s what you need to know:
Austin Is Seeing Above Average Rainfall
The National Weather Service has recorded 4.17 inches of rainfall at Camp Mabry, the city’s main weather station, so far this month. Normally by July 19, the area records just 1.30 inches of rain.
Additionally, heavy rain in the Hill Country caused flooding, which pushed runoff from the Highland Lakes into Lake Travis, the Lower Colorado River Authority said.
Lake Travis is considered full when it reaches 681 feet above sea level and as of Monday, the lake was just under 684 feet above sea level.
Floodgates Have Been Opened
The Lower Colorado River Authority opened two floodgates at Mansfield Dam on Lake Travis. The lake was built to capture floodwaters and hold them until they can be safely released downstream.
“The Highland Lakes system is operating as designed, moving water through the lakes in an orderly manner,” said John Hofmann, LCRA’s executive vice president of water.
Floodgates were also opened at Wirtz Dam on Lake LBJ and Starcke Dam on Lake Marble Falls.
The opening of the floodgates at Mansfield Dam caused fast water flow and an increase of debris in the waters beneath the dam, which include Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake, and the Colorado River below Longhorn Dam. Recreational activities on those waterways are banned through 5 p.m. today.
Lake Travis Is Experiencing Some Closures
Travis County Judge Andy Brown issued an order banning recreational use on Lake Travis between mile markers 27 and 37.
“Recent flooding has caused debris and hazards to collect along the Pedernales River and throughout Lake Travis. Because of this threat, it was imperative for Travis County to limit use of Lake Travis between mile marker 27 to 37,” Brown said.
To find the current status of a Travis County park, check the county’s website.
