Lake Corpus Christi has seen a significant drop in water levels since the start of the year, sparking concerns among residents about the safety of those venturing into the water. For long-time lake resident John Ahrens, the situation is particularly alarming.
Hidden Hazards Emerge
Ahrens shared, “The interesting thing is it didn’t start until the water level went away,” as he described the stark changes he noticed in the lake over the past few months. Having lived near the lake for three years, Ahrens pointed out a troubling discovery: trees and debris now visible near the dam and park.
“Trees sticking out of the water near the dam and park are a serious hazard,” he explained. “They pose potential dangers for boaters and tubers alike.”
This unexpected transformation of the lake has not only disrupted recreational activities but also created fear among residents. “My wife says she doesn’t want to go in the water because she’s afraid of getting speared by these trees,” Ahrens added.
Recent Tragedies Spark Urgency
Concerns like Ahrens’ have been magnified by recent tragedies. Over the weekend, two people drowned at Lake Corpus Christi, bringing the total number of drownings this year to four.
“Unfortunately, at Lake Corpus Christi, we’ve had multiple drownings this year,” confirmed Captain Ben Baker, a Game Warden with Texas Parks and Wildlife. He highlighted that the lack of personal flotation devices played a role in all these incidents, while none were directly tied to the emerging hazards in the lake.
“Most of the drownings were from swimming, and none of the individuals were using personal flotation devices,” Baker said.
A Call for Caution
Baker urges visitors to exercise caution as they navigate the lake’s unpredictable terrain due to low water levels.
“The areas people knew to be gradual slopes may now be uneven or hazardous,” he warned. Baker also stressed the importance of wearing flotation devices and staying vigilant in unfamiliar areas.
While safety measures can help prevent accidents, residents like Ahrens believe more needs to be done. “That’s one of my biggest concerns,” he said. “I want to bring awareness to the stewards of the lake—are these issues being addressed?”
Hope for a Safer Future
As discussions around lake management and safety continue, Ahrens and his neighbors remain hopeful. They believe that with the right attention and action, the lake can become a safer and more enjoyable space once water levels return to normal.
For now, residents and visitors alike must tread carefully, staying mindful of the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface.