LCRA opens floodgates at Wirtz and Starcke dams after Hill Country floods kill at least 13


Posted: Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:49 PM - 69 Readers

By: Tara Brolley


The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) opened floodgates at Wirtz Dam on Friday evening and planned to open additional gates at both Wirtz and Starcke dams to manage storm runoff entering the Highland Lakes system. This action followed devastating flooding in the Texas Hill Country that claimed at least 13 lives.

The operations were triggered by intense rainfall late Thursday and early Friday, with rates reaching up to 12 inches per hour in some areas, causing rapid river rises like the Guadalupe River surging 26 feet in 45 minutes. The flooding severely impacted locations including Camp Mystic. 

LCRA warned residents of very fast flows and elevated water levels downstream, urging them to protect people and property, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow the Turn around, dont drown rule for flooded roads. The Highland Lakes system helps protect Austin by channeling floodwaters safely.





Read Full Story at: Tara Brolley

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