Lack of rainfall having major impact on Barton Springs

The lack of rain this fall is really taking a toll on central Texas. The city of Austin is currently under a Level 3 Drought Monitor, and experts say this year's drought is being compated to some of the worst in state history.

"About 100,000 folks are being impacted by the drought levels that we are in for the district," said Shay Hlavaty with Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District.

The lack of rain across the area has been bad recently and could break records if it continues.

"If we continue to not get rain over months or years, it could become even more severe than anything we've had on record," said Hlavaty.

Barton Springs is seeing the impacts of the lack of rainfall. The BSEACD reports that water flow at the springs is alarmingly low.

"When you factor in the dry conditions and the above-normal temperatures as well, that's why we're seeing the rapid-onset drought conditions, which is leading towards Barton Springs having issues as well," said Meteorologist Austin Burkes.

The Springs' current flow rate is measured at a little under 18 cubic feet per second. Hlavaty says the average number for Barton Springs is 78 cubic feet per second.

If the 10-day average level falls below 14, the BSEACD will declare a Stage 4 Drought Monitor for just the second time in the district's history.

"The drought of the 50s is the most severe drought that we have on record," said Hlavaty. "And so for this to even come remotely in comparison with that is very concerning, especially for the community members here with a growing population and the dwindling water resources that are available."

Burkes says there's something factoring into the lack of rain.

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"You're really seeing above-normal temperatures factor in with that, that's why we're seeing the drought conditions expand rapidly here across Central Texas," he said.

According to Burkes, relief is on the way.

"We have some decent rain chances coming up late Sunday night, mainly into Monday morning. But after that, nothing looking too great for rain," he said.

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