You're Never Going Boating Ever Again

And the Austin-area watercraft bans get extended even further, to the end of the week. Press release from the city:

Area waterway restrictions continue throughout this week


City of Austin officials have extended the current boating ban for all of Lake Austin, Town Lake and the Colorado River below the Longhorn Dam through noon Friday, July 6, 2007.

The extended ban is necessary due to the Lower Colorado River Authority’s continuing operations at Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam. Flood gates have been open all week, creating very swift, debris-filled waters and unsafe conditions.

Persons with interests along these waterways should contact the City of Austin Parks Police Headquarters at (512) 974-7707 during business hours to receive written authorization to secure or remove property in the Flood Ban Area. Proof of ownership or occupancy is required.

Watercraft illegally operated on waters in the Watercraft Ban Area is a Class C Misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $500 and boats may be impounded. Crossing barricades put in place on roadways or boat ramps for public safety can result in a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by jail time up to 180 days and fines up to $2000.

City officials urge residents to be safe during a flood. Most fatalities occur when people drive through flooded roads or walk near creeks or low-lying areas. Be aware that water can rise very quickly and avoid low-water crossings. At night it may be difficult to see water on the road. Never attempt to drive, swim or walk through water that is flowing in a roadway, ditch or storm drain. "Turn around, don’t drown!"

For current flood ban and roadway closure information, visit the City of Austin’s Emergency Conditions webpage at www.cityofaustin.org/emergency.