Drought Reveals Spectacular Underwater Cave and Centuries-Old Ruins in Texas – Witness the Unseen!
Water levels in Canyon Lake, Texas have dropped so significantly that an extraordinary sight is emerging - a hidden underwater cave and the preserved ruins of communities from over a century ago are resurfacing
Canyon Lake, located in Comal County just northeast of San Antonio, Texas, has experienced such low water levels that an underwater cave and remains of communities that existed over a century ago are now resurfacing. This man-made lake, spanning 8,200 acres and boasting 80 miles of shoreline, was created in 1958 with the purpose of reducing flooding and conserving water. By 1968, it was fully filled with water under the supervision of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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The region has encountered scarce rainfall throughout the summer, resulting in a severe drought and exceptionally low water levels due to the intense heat. As reported by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the water level dropped to 890.89 feet on Wednesday, measuring approximately 18 feet below the usual level and marking the lowest recorded level in recent times. JM Perez managed to photograph the previously submerged cave on Tuesday, an uncommon sight that evoked mixed emotions.
"I have been observing the depletion of the lake as I work nearby," he informed CNN. "Currently, the water level is more than 18 feet below normal, which is quite disheartening. However, it is incredibly fascinating to discover some of the previously concealed caves and uncover the historical remnants that are surfacing."
A bridge and rubble from a previous house that was underwater at Canyon Lake in Texas reappeared due to historically low water levels.
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Founded by German immigrants in the 1850s, the towns of Hancock and Cranes Mill were situated in the area that is now submerged underwater, as reported by CNN affiliate KSAT. Among Perez's photographs, some showcase the remains of a house that once stood on the flooded lake, along with the Hancock bridge.
Captured by Porsche Devol on September 2, the images depict water levels that have dramatically receded. At that time, only a small portion of a cave was visible. However, recent photos reveal a significantly larger entrance adorned with rock formations and stalactites hanging from the ceiling.
"This is the lowest I've ever seen the water since I relocated here," Devol expressed to CNN, feeling a tinge of sadness.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, regular monitoring of the lake's water levels takes place, prompting the closure of lakeside recreational facilities whenever the water becomes dangerously low. The agency also noted that along with the emergence of caves and remnants of previously inhabited areas, the lake's diminishing surface has led to the appearance of trash and various other objects.
"It is a frequent occurrence to discover discarded objects whenever the water level of the lake decreases," said Clay Church, a spokesperson for the US Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District, in an interview with CNN. "Among the most commonly encountered items are old tires."
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Additionally, the US Army Corps of Engineers is advising caution for those planning to visit the lake. Church emphasized that as the lake level decreases, there is a higher possibility of underwater hazards like tree stumps and large rocks appearing near or on the water's surface. These hazards pose significant dangers to boaters and swimmers.
