Lake Travis reaches 107% capacity as Central Texas authorities manage massive water releases following historic rainfall.
Lake Travis has reached 107% capacity for the first time since 2019 following a week of torrential rainfall across Central Texas. The Lower Colorado River Authority has initiated aggressive flood management operations, opening gates at Mansfield Dam, Tom Miller Dam, and Buchanan Dam to control the influx of water. John Hofmann, executive vice president of water for the Lower Colorado River Authority, noted that the flood pool serves as a critical buffer for downstream communities. While the rains have replenished regional water supplies, they have also left the area with significant debris. Travis County Judge Andy Brown issued an order limiting recreational use of the Pedernales River and Lake Travis between mile markers 27 and 37 due to safety hazards. As the rain subsides, a high-pressure system is moving in, bringing a rapid return to hot, humid conditions with afternoon highs in the mid-90s. Officials are urging residents to stay out of swollen rivers and to manage standing water to prevent a spike in the local mosquito population.