San Antonio Bounces Back from Drought as Rainfall Brings Hope for Improved Water Conditions

San Antonio, Texas: A Sigh of Relief as Drought Conditions Improve

San Antonio, it seems, has finally turned a corner when it comes to its ongoing battle against drought. As of last week, recent updates have confirmed that the San Antonio metro area is no longer considered to be in a drought. This is fantastic news, especially considering that it’s the first time since March 2022 that the area has escaped from at least a Level 1, or moderate, drought status. Best of all, this all comes on the heels of some much-needed rainfall!

A Shift from Drought to Abnormally Dry

While we can celebrate the fact that San Antonio has removed itself from the drought list, it’s not all sunshine just yet. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the city is currently classified as “abnormally dry.” This term indicates that while we may not be in a drought now, there’s still some work to do in ensuring our water resources are in prime condition.

On a positive note, San Antonio has already seen more rain this year than the entirety of 2023. So far, the city has received 21.3 inches of rain, which is a significant uptick compared to past years. However, it’s worth mentioning that we are still trailing behind our average by about 1.7 inches for this time of year. So, while we have made significant strides, we certainly aren’t out of the woods yet when it comes to overall water health.

A Tale of Two Regions

And while San Antonio is taking steps forward, other areas nearby are navigating through more challenging conditions. Certain parts of the Hill Country, including Northern Bexar County, Boerne, and Kerrville, continue to face moderate drought conditions. Bandera County is grappling with a more severe Level 2 drought.

The lingering effects of the severe drought that affected the region in the past couple of years are becoming evident. For instance, take a look at Medina Lake: its surface elevation currently stands at 974.27 feet above sea level—not great news, especially when we remember that this is nearly two feet less than its levels from late July. According to the Texas Water Development Board, the lake is only a meager 3.2% full. Certainly not what you want to see!

Water Restrictions Remain in Place

The drought is still having an impact on groundwater levels too. The Edwards Aquifer Authority has implemented Stage 4 water use reductions after the springs’ outflow averages fell below crucial thresholds. Currently, the 10-day average for the J-17 index well is at 632.2 feet, putting us at Stage 3 restrictions. Under these rules, permit holders—like the San Antonio Water System—are limited to pumping a maximum of 65% of their permitted water usage. If the situation worsens and levels dip below 630 feet, even stricter Stage 4 restrictions will take effect.

For the residents under these Stage 3 watering restrictions, outdoor watering is only permitted once a week, with specific days assigned for sprinkler and irrigation systems. Drip irrigation is allowed just twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. These precautions are essential to conserving water resources.

Drought’s Grip Still Tight in Other Areas

As we take a wider glance at Texas as a whole, it’s clear that some regions are still suffering more than others. Far West Texas, including parts of Culberson, Jeff Davis, and Presidio counties, are facing Level 4 drought conditions, the most severe classification available. Communities like Marfa and Valentine are feeling the heat as a result.

Interestingly enough, while some areas are improving, others, especially around the Red River region in North Texas, are seeing the drought conditions intensify, with some areas classifying as severe drought. Approximately 32% of Texas is currently grappling with moderate drought or worse—a much-needed improvement from last year’s staggering 86%.

Looking Ahead

As rain continues to play a crucial role in our water situation, we’re hopeful that communities across Texas make the necessary adjustments and appreciate the ups and downs of nature. It’s a good reminder of how essential it is to conserve water and stay aware of our local environment. Here’s to hoping we can keep up the good work, San Antonio!