Falls Lake water-level drop amid drought noticeable to visitors: 'Little alarming'
WAKE FOREST, N.C. (WTVD) -- Drought conditions are worsening an already concerning situation at Falls Lake, where water levels continue to recede, exposing more sandbars and shoreline as temperatures are expected to climb in the coming days.
Aerial footage from Chopper 11 on Tuesday showed significant drops in water levels across the lake, with expanding sandbars visible throughout the area. The changes come nearly two months into water use restrictions, as central Carolina grapples with ongoing dry conditions.
Despite the declining water levels, families continue to visit the lake to cool off.
"I was playing my hands to the bottom and my legs kicking at the top like I was like a puffer fish," said Cora of Wake Forest.
Others said the visible drop in water levels is striking.
"It looks a little alarming. We've lived here about three years, and this is certainly the lowest we've ever seen it," said Sarah Kiedrowski of Wake Forest.
City of Raleigh officials said Tuesday that water supply levels at Falls Lake fell another three percentage points, bringing the total to 69%. Images captured from the air show widening shorelines and exposed areas, including at Sandling Beach Recreation Area.
The changing shoreline has created challenges for parents keeping an eye on their children.
"Us parents were sitting in the shade over here was a little bit longer to get down to the kids because they were so much further away. So that was an adjustment as a parent," Kiedrowski said.
As water levels drop, forecasters warn that temperatures will rise in the coming days, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Doctors say preparation is key for anyone spending time outdoors.
"A little bit of mild headaches, mild muscle soreness, mild nausea. It kind of starts to progress then to maybe more heat cramps, significant lightheadedness or passing out," said Dr. Ryan Lamb, chair of the emergency department at UNC Rex Hospital.
Lamb recommended taking steps to stay safe in the heat, including getting adequate rest, staying hydrated and managing existing health conditions.
"I plan to go out, I really want to do it. OK, I'm gonna start sleeping well, hydrating well, make sure my chronic medical conditions are well controlled," Lamb said.
He and others also advised seeking shade, wearing loose, light-colored clothing and bringing plenty of water.
"Make sure that you bring the cooler full of goodies and some water bottles," Kiedrowski said.
Officials and residents alike are bracing for continued dry conditions as the region heads into hotter weather, raising concerns about both water supply and public health.
