FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2020

Contact: Jessica Beemer (832) 393-3008

Lake Houston Level Being Lowered
 
Houston, TX - Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin would like to make residents aware that Houston Public Works will initiate the temporary lowering of Lake Houston within the hour. This decision has been made after taking in to account the fast changing nature of Hurricane Laura. Lake Houston will be lowered to 41.0 ft, which is 18 inches below full pool. It is predicted Hurricane Laura will bring 2 - 4 inches of rain to the Lake Houston Area over a six day period, with isolated incidents of 6 inches of rainfall possible. These rainfall amounts exceed the 3 inch trigger to lower Lake Houston. 

As a result of these predicted rainfall amounts in addition to the rainfall that will be accumulated to our east, the Lake will be lowered gradually overnight from the current level, which is 41.6 ft down to an elevation of 41.0 ft. The Lake will be maintained at a level of approximately 41.0 ft while there is an immediate inclement weather threat. Once the inclement weather threat has moved out of our area the Lake will be allowed to naturally refill due to runoff from the rain event. Some fluctuations in Lake level while lowering can be attributed to high winds so please keep that in mind when checking Lake levels.

Property owners were given notice Friday afternoon to secure property along the shoreline for a potential temporary lowering of Lake Houston. If you have not already done so now is the time to take action to secure your shoreline property. The current level of Lake Houston is 41.6 ft and continues to be lowered at a cautious rate as to not impact those living downstream. At the completion of this temporary lowering effort the total reduction in the level of Lake Houston from normal pool of 42.5 ft to 41.0 ft is 1.5 feet. 
 
Mayor Pro Tem Martin will continue to work with Houston Public Works to make sure that everything possible is done to secure life and property in the Lake Houston area. Please monitor Mayor Pro Tem Martin's Facebook and Twitter for updates from the District E office. Additionally, residents may monitor the lowering of Lake Houston by visiting the Coastal Water Authority website. 
For more information, please contact Mayor Pro Tem Martin's office at (832) 393-3008 or via email at  districte@houstontx.gov.

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