After years of drought, South Central Texas has seen some significant flooding events since June 2025. While these floods have caused challenges for many residents, there is a silver lining: local lakes and reservoirs have benefited from the increased water levels.
Remarkably, the improvements in the water levels are so substantial that they can be observed from space! Thanks to data from the European Union Sentinel Satellite, we can see these changes in real-time.
Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake was at its lowest point in May 2025, just 45% full. Now, it has reached 100% capacity for the first time since September 2021. This is a significant recovery for the lake, which plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water supply.
Improvements to Canyon Lake from May 2025 to now. Courtesy: European Union Sentinel Satellite Data
(Copyright 2026 by KSAT – All rights reserved.)
Medina Lake
Medina Reservoir was alarmingly low at just 2% full in May 2025. However, it has now risen to 29% full, marking an increase of nearly 45 feet! While it may not seem like a full recovery, this rise is significant for the local environment and community.
Improvements to Medina Lake from May 2025 to now. Courtesy: European Union Sentinel Satellite Data
(Copyright 2026 by KSAT – All rights reserved.)
Nueces River Flooding
The flooding situation extends to the Nueces River, particularly in McMullen and Live Oak counties. Recent floods have caused the river to swell, with the floodwaters making their way to Lake Corpus Christi, which is expected to rise in the coming weeks.
Nueces River Flooding before and after the July 2026 floods. Courtesy: NASA
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Lake Level Details
As of late July 2026, here’s a quick update on the lake and reservoir levels in the area. The improvements are promising, and they offer hope for a more stable water supply going forward.
Lake levels have improved
(Copyright 2026 by KSAT – All rights reserved.)
