WEEKEND RAINS RAISE WATER LEVELS AT LAKE SOMERVILLE, BRAZOS RIVER
The recent heavy rains have considerably raised water levels at Lake Somerville and the Brazos River.
Readings from www.somerville.lakesonline.com show lake levels at 243 feet, five feet above the full pool of 238 feet. Flood pool levels for Lake Somerville are 258 feet.
Water levels have risen over four feet, since December 5th’s level at 239 feet. Park Ranger Jennifer Tlair said the lake’s floodgates could possibly be opened and in operation by Wednesday or Thursday. According to Tlair, there have already been closures, such as Rocky Creek Park at the lake.
The Brazos River has also risen because of rains over the weekend. The river near Hempstead is expected to crest tomorrow (Tuesday) at 46.4 feet. Flood stage for the river near Hempstead is 50 feet. These are according to projections from the National Weather Service’s Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service.
The Brazos River above San Felipe is projected to crest Wednesday at 117 feet, passing action stage at 113 feet. Flood stage is 122.5 feet.
Meanwhile, the river at Richmond is projected to crest Thursday at 41.8 feet, while flood stage is 45 feet.