How Badly Do We Need Rain...?

I know some folks probably would like me to stop talking about how badly we need rain around here, but maybe this story in the Houston Chronicle will show just how much we do!

This could make a big difference in the fishing if it keeps up. Not to mention the possibility of some very dangerous fires from campers, storms, and other means!

Texas lakes lose 358 billions of gallons of water

Associated Press
July 11, 2011, 2:08PM

LUBBOCK — Searing temperatures and a drought rivaling Texas’ worst on record are taking a toll on lake levels statewide.

A June water report found levels in 109 lakes dropped by 4 percent, or more than 358 billion gallons. Three lakes — all in West Texas — are effectively empty.

Only one reservoir, Lake Livingston north of Houston, was full, six fewer than in May, according to the Texas Water Development Board.

The 109 lakes are 73 percent full, down 13 percent from a year ago, the report indicates. Of the 109 lakes monitored for the report, just 41 were at 85 percent capacity or fuller.

Statewide, this past June was the hottest on record. The average temperature was 85.2 degrees, besting the 1953 record of 84.9 degrees.

Well, there you have it! I'm sure other places need rain as badly as we do, but this just shows what kind of shape we are in around here! BTW, I know the average shows 85.2, but I can tell you this. It's reached 100 on my patio nearly every day this last week!

Want some coffee on the patio? I've got iced tea as well, if you want!