Wichita Falls Ends Drought Restrictions After Council Vote

After months of water use limitations, Wichita Falls residents can finally put away their drought-conscious habits for now.

On Tuesday, the Wichita Falls City Council voted to lift the Stage One Drought Watch, ending water restrictions that had been in place since October 2024. The decision comes after steady rainfall brought significant recovery to the region’s water supply. Lakes Arrowhead and Kickapoo, the city’s primary water sources, have both climbed to over 90% capacity, which is a key threshold for easing conservation measures.

Drought Limits Lifted by Wichita Falls City Council

The vote took place during a public council meeting at the Multi-Purpose Events Center on today, where officials pointed to the improved lake levels as evidence that the restrictions had served their purpose.

With the drought designation removed, the city will return to its standard water use regulations. That includes limiting outdoor watering to the cooler hours between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m., a measure aimed at reducing evaporation and preserving long-term supply.

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Wichita Falls has experienced multiple drought cycles over the last decade, and city leaders emphasized the importance of remaining mindful of water use, even during wetter periods. But for now, the rainfall offers a reprieve, and a reason for residents to exhale.