Canyon Lake's water levels at a historic low due to prolonged drought conditions in South Texas.
Canyon Lake, a popular outdoor destination near San Antonio, is facing a crisis with water levels dropping to a 50-year low due to severe drought conditions in South Texas. Water levels have decreased to 47.6%, significantly impacting local businesses and recreational activities. The ongoing drought has caused extreme measures, including burn bans and potential water restrictions in the area. Residents and business owners are left hoping for much-needed rainfall as the community faces these challenging conditions.
Welcome to Canyon Lake, a picturesque haven for outdoor lovers located just 42 miles north of downtown San Antonio. This beautiful location, which typically teems with boating, fishing, and family gatherings, is currently facing a significant challenge. Water levels here have dropped to a staggering 50-year low, courtesy of an ongoing drought that’s gripping South Texas.
Just last year, Canyon Lake boasted a healthy water level of around 60% full. Fast forward to today, and that number has plummeted to a concerning 47.6%. Over the past year, that’s a hefty drop of 20% in water levels. Back in September, the lake was sitting at 55%, and three months ago it was at 50.6%. It’s putting a damper on the fun, especially for boat owners and families looking to enjoy a day on the water.
Local businesses are feeling the pinch as well. Boat owner Dustin Smith from Below The Belt Services highlights the challenges. With water levels so low, access to the lake has become almost impossible for boating activities. For those who rely on the lake for leisure or livelihood, this situation is less than ideal.
It’s not just the boat enthusiasts who are affected. Dock hands at places like Cranes Mill Marina are witnessing the consequences unfold right before their eyes. The marina has had to relocate a full 1,000 feet to maintain access to the water. If you’re planning to visit the marina, be prepared for limited services, as there are currently no public boat ramps open at Canyon Lake, and their reopening very much depends on the rain.
To put things into perspective, the U.S. Drought Monitor has classified much of the South Texas region as experiencing either “extreme” or even “exceptional” drought conditions. Comal County has been under extreme drought since late October 2023. With forecasts predicting only a 20% chance of rain on March 26, it’s clear that moisture is in short supply.
San Antonio, which usually enjoys a steady rainfall, has seen a startling 1.77 inches of rain in 2025, representing only 36% of the average for this time. If we look back to last August, the city received just 5.99 inches of rain, falling over 13 inches short of its average.
The ongoing drought has prompted local authorities to take action. Bexar County officials have reinstated burn bans to prevent the risk of brush fires. Residents are still allowed to burn domestic waste in certain types of barrels, but safety comes first in these arid conditions.
Looking ahead, there are talks of the Edwards Aquifer Authority implementing stage 5 water restrictions due to the alarming drop in water levels. More than 55% of Bexar County is now classified under exceptional drought, and it’s a situation that no one is taking lightly.
Unfortunately, Canyon Lake isn’t the only one feeling the heat. Nearby lakes are also showing distress, with Medina Lake currently sitting at a mere 2.3% of full capacity. Weather predictions suggest we can expect lovely temperatures ahead but with limited humidity, leading to increasingly dry conditions.
As Canyon Lake navigates these challenging waters, residents and business owners alike remain hopeful for rain and the revival of the lake’s water levels. It’s a reminder of how interconnected our environment is and how crucial it is to take care of our natural resources.
So, while Canyon Lake might be facing its challenges today, the spirit and resilience of the community will undoubtedly shine through. Here’s hoping for a splash of much-needed rain soon!
Exceptional Drought Devastates South Texas
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