FLOOD GATES OPENED AT LAKE SOMERVILLE

  

The flood gates at Lake Somerville have been opened after recent rainfall brought lake levels almost seven feet above normal.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers opened the flood gates on Friday, and made the decision on Tuesday to open them further.  They are currently releasing 2,000 cubic feet of water—approximately 14,961 gallons—per second.

Lake Somerville Reservoir Manager Russell Meier said the lake measured at 244.95 feet at the time the flood gates were opened, compared to the normal full pool of 238 feet.  He said at this time, there is no real timetable as to when the flood gates will be closed.

 

As of this (Wednesday) morning, according to www.somerville.lakesonline.com, the lake sits at 244.8 feet.  Flood pool levels for the lake are 258 feet.

Meier said the water that is released from the flood gates exits downstream into Yegua Creek, flowing into the Brazos River and eventually the Gulf of Mexico.  The release of water allows the Corps of Engineers to increase its flood storage capacity in order to get back down to normal lake levels.

The high water has caused some boat ramp and campsite closures at Rocky Creek and Yegua Creek Parks.  The embankment road between Lake Somerville Marina and Campground and Welch Park remains closed as the City of Brenham works to repair its water intake structure.