Tropical Storm Hermine

Tropical Storm Hermine is strengthening in the Gulf of Mexico.  The latest computer models have it going right over Brownsville, TX and then into west central Texas.  What does that mean for Lake Travis and other Highland Lakes?

Current models have Hermine tracking close to San Angelo in a few days.  Forecasts are calling for 4-8 inches of rain in northeastern Mexico and south Texas.  Rainfall amounts up to 12 inches are possible in isolated areas.  As the storm pushes inland, the northeastern quadrant is likely to track over the drainage basin for the Highland Lakes.  That is the part of most tropical systems that will drop the most rain.

The amount of water that may make it into Lake Travis and other central Texas depends on how much falls over the catch basin and how fast it falls.  The ground is fairly dry and the first inch or so of rain may just soak in.  If the area gets significant and widespread rain, a lot of that will run off into the lakes.

The level of Lake Travis is currently a little over 666 feet above mean sea level.  That is around 2 feet above normal for this time of year. Considering the fact that the Austin area just got out a period of extended and extreme drought, I doubt many people will be unhappy to see the lakes fill up some.

Anyone who owns Lake Travis waterfront property that has a boat dock that does not self-adjust may want to keep an eye on the level of the lake over the next few days.  The lake level could stay right where it is or if could rise quickly depending on the amount of rain and how fast it falls.

This weather event should play itself out as far as Texas is concerned over the next 3-4 days.  So keep an eye to the sky and on the radar.