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Not Listed?Listing your business is FREE! Lake Travis overturning: Why does the lake smell bad?Posted: Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:40 AM - 231 Readers By: KXAN Lake Travis, the largest water storage reservoir in the region, holds over 300 billion gallons of water and experiences a natural process known as "turnover" twice a year. This phenomenon is driven by temperature changes. In the summer, long hot days warm the surface of the lake to over 80 degrees while the deeper water remains cool and stable. As colder weather arrives, the surface water cools, becomes denser, and sinks, pushing the deeper water upward. Wind further mixes the lake until the temperature is uniform throughout, officially marking the turnover. This process brings noticeable changes. As bottom waters rise, decaying organic matter releases hydrogen sulfide gas, creating a distinct rotten smell at the surface. While unpleasant for people, the turnover provides nutrients that benefit fish populations. When warmer weather returns, surface water heats back up, pushing cooler water downward and restoring conditions favorable for swimming and recreation. This natural cycle helps maintain the health and balance of Lake Travis throughout the year. Read Full Story at: KXAN Lake Travis overturning: Why does the lake smell bad? Sep 10, 2025 LCRA plans to lower Inks Lake for maintenance Sep 9, 2025 NWS: Hurricane Lorena, cold front spark new threat level in Texas Sep 4, 2025 Are triple digits almost done for the year in Austin? Sep 3, 2025 Oasis on Lake Travis Keeps Music Alive in September Sep 3, 2025 The Canyon Club - Texas Hill Country's Premier Waterfront Haven Sep 2, 2025 Tapping In: Resource concerns flow at water panel Sep 2, 2025 Lake Travis back in business for Labor Day after floods cause financial hit Sep 1, 2025 Flood watch in effect for the Austin area until noon on Monday Aug 31, 2025 Heat and rain in Austin Friday, but what’s the weather for UT game in Ohio on Saturday? Aug 29, 2025 |
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