Lake Conroe Temporarily Closed Due to High Levels, Submerged Objects, and Floating Debris

UPDATE – March 31 10:30AM: Lake Conroe will open to normal lake traffic and activities at noon today Saturday, March 31. Learn more here

Effective immediately, the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) is temporarily closing Lake Conroe due to high lake levels, the presence of submerged objects, floating debris, and other hazards that could put people’s safety at risk.

San Jacinto River Authority shared that, “We recognize that this is Easter weekend, and we will make every effort to fully reopen the reservoir as soon as conditions allow.”

The lake level has risen to nearly 203′ above mean sea level (msl), which is two feet over the lake’s normal pool level of 201′ msl.

At this level, many docks, bulkheads, small islands, and other structures are fully submerged and create a very dangerous situation for boaters. In addition, high winds and rapidly-flowing water from local streams have resulted in a large amount of floating debris on the reservoir. With bulkheads becoming submerged, lake area residents should also be cautious of electrical outlets and equipment coming into contact with water.

Advertisement

Over the last several days, the Lake Conroe watershed has experienced rainfall totals from five to eight inches. This has resulted in a rapid rise in lake level.

SJRA is currently releasing water from the dam in accordance with its operating procedures for the reservoir. The rate of release is currently 6,526 cubic feet per second (cfs).

The estimated peak inflow into the lake during this event was nearly 30,000 cfs. This means that the operation of the dam reduced the peak flow that would otherwise have continued down the river.

The lake appears to have crested which should minimize how long the lake will remain closed.

Anyone interested in monitoring Lake Conroe levels, releases, rainfall totals, or stream flows can visit SJRA’s Contrail System. For additional information visit their website at www.sjra.net.

Source: San Jacinto River Authority

Advertisement