Lake Travis surged above full during recent Texas flooding. What residents need to know


Posted: Mon, 27 Jul 2026 01:21 PM - 82 Readers

By: Monica Danielle


Lake Travis surged above its full pool level of 681 feet during recent heavy flooding in the Texas Hill Country, marking the first time the reservoir has reached capacity since 2019. Intense rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 20 inches, sent massive inflows from the Pedernales and other rivers into the Highland Lakes system. The lake rose more than 10 feet in a short period, entering its designated flood pool and prompting the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to open floodgates at Mansfield Dam to release excess water and manage levels.

Residents and lake users should exercise heightened caution in the coming days. Fast currents, submerged debris, and elevated bacteria levels pose risks, leading to temporary restrictions or bans on recreational boating and swimming on parts of Lake Travis, Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake, and the Colorado River below the dam. The LCRA continues controlled releases, and levels remain near or slightly above full as water is gradually drawn down; boaters and property owners near the shoreline should stay informed via official updates and avoid murky or debris-filled waters.



Read Full Story at: Monica Danielle

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