• Outdoors Outdoors

Residents celebrate as drought-stricken US lakes see major turnaround: 'This is back to what we know'

Experts are still cautious.

Experts are still cautious.

Photo Credit: X

A downpour of rain has brought relief to drought-stricken lakes in Travis County, Texas. 

As reported by CBS Austin, excessive rainfall across much of the state during July eliminated much of the drought, with the water levels in some lakes increasing by 14 feet in a week. 

Many people reported finally feeling like they lived on a lake again, with their docks floating on the water for the first time in years. One resident, Sarah Roberts, told CBS Austin: "It feels like we live on a lake again. This is back to what we know."

Despite the good news, experts remain cautious, as heavy rainfall in previous years has often been followed by a prolonged drought. As a result, they continue to warn against using too much water in case the country doesn't see the same levels of rainfall next year. "Even if you go back to stage one drought restrictions, please stay on once-a-week watering," said Shannon Hamilton, executive director of the Central Texas Water Coalition, per CBS Austin

An increase in lake water levels is good news for the local area, relieving people from drought and helping maintain healthy ecosystems. Good water levels support aquatic habitats, influence vegetation growth, and provide resources for local people and farmers. The easing of drought restrictions means farmers will be able to water their crops properly and people will be able to use water in their yards. 

While the easing of drought restrictions is good, there are many ways that people can reduce their water consumption at home. These include using water-saving hacks, fixing leaks, harvesting rainwater for yard watering, and installing a native plant garden that is adapted to local weather conditions. 

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