Austin reports declining water levels amid ongoing drought conditions and storage projections

In a recent meeting of the Austin Integrated Water Resource Planning Community Task Force, members discussed the current water supply conditions in the Colorado River and Highland Lakes, highlighting ongoing drought challenges and future projections. The meeting, held on April 8, 2025, provided critical updates on water inflows and storage levels, which are essential for the community's water management strategies.

The task force reviewed data showing that inflows to Lakes Travis and Buchanan have been significantly below average in recent months. While there was a temporary increase in inflows during the summer of 2024, the situation has deteriorated, with current inflows falling well below historical averages. This decline is particularly concerning as Travis County is experiencing extreme to exceptional drought conditions, as indicated by the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Task force members emphasized the importance of these discussions, noting that the drought conditions have prompted the creation of long-term water management plans since the severe drought of 2014. The current task force, established in 2015, has been working to develop strategies to ensure water availability for the community.

Looking ahead, projections from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggest a likelihood of higher than normal temperatures and below-average precipitation in the coming months. This forecast raises concerns about the potential for further declines in water storage levels, which are already precarious. The task force noted that combined storage in Lakes Buchanan and Travis is expected to remain above emergency levels, but the risk of entering more severe drought contingency plans looms if conditions do not improve.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued monitoring of weather patterns and water supply conditions, as the community prepares for the critical spring months, which are typically the wettest of the year. The task force remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing drought and ensuring sustainable water resources for Austin's future.