The heavy rains that fell on Austin last September offered welcomed relief from the heat of summer. They did nothing, though, to end the current drought.
Still, there’s reason to hope. The precipitation, which brought up to 6 inches of rain to some parts of Austin, did cause a small spike in the groundwater levels and increased discharge at Barton Springs. It also primed soil in the area to generate surface runoff in the event that the city receives even modest rains in the right places.
The best news comes from the Climate Prediction Center. Earlier this month, it reported that El Niño conditions are likely to begin in the next 1 to 2 months. Central Texas stands to benefit greatly from such a weather pattern and may already be seeing the benefits. This month, the district rain gauge has collected just over 1 inch of rainfall (the average historic level is 3.3 inches).
So what does all this mean for you?
Following Austin Water guidelines for Stage 2 watering restrictions will continue to be a must. You’ll be able to use hose-end sprinklers before 10AM and after 7PM and automatic irrigation systems between 12AM and 5AM and after 7PM on your designated day of the week. And if you hand-water, you can still do so at any time. For more details, check out the Austin Water website at http://www.austintexas.gov/department/stage-2-watering-restrictions.
At South Austin Irrigation, we believe that knowledge, especially about the city’s water situation, is crucial to helping you create an outdoor environment that’s as genuinely enjoyable as it is sustainable. When you need irrigation system repair and/or service, South Austin Irrigation has what you need, when you need it. Contact us today!
