Medina Lake near San Antonio has dropped to just 4.4 percent capacity, approaching "dead pool" status that threatens downstream water flow. The lake hit record lows of 2.5 percent in April 2025 before briefly recovering to 6.5 percent after July 4 flooding. Water levels currently sit at 978.57 feet above sea level, 86 feet below full capacity.

Drought conditions have plagued the Texas Hill Country for years, with satellite imagery showing the lake's gradual disappearance over the past decade. The Bandera County River Authority has declared an "exceptional" drought and implemented strict water restrictions on irrigation and well use. The Bexar-Medina-Atascosa Water Control District operates under Stage 4 restrictions as new developments continue targeting the water-stressed region.

The declining water levels impact multiple stakeholders across the region. Tourism-dependent businesses face economic hardship as recreational activities diminish. Farmers struggle with irrigation shortages while the growing population increases demand for this vital resource. The situation highlights the tension between development and water scarcity in one of Texas's fastest-growing areas.

Quick Fact: Medina Lake's full capacity should hold 1,064.2 feet of water above sea level.