How Weather Affects the Comal River

How weather affects Comal River tubing in New Braunfels is one of the most common questions we get at Landa River Trips. After 40 years on the river we have seen it all, perfect spring days, sudden storms, and everything in between. This guide will help you understand how the Comal River responds to rain and weather so you can plan your trip with confidence.

How Weather Affects Comal River Tubing — Rain and the Comal

The Comal River is unique among Texas rivers in that it recovers relatively quickly after rainfall. The primary source of high water and flooding does not come from the spring fed Comal River itself but from the Dry Comal Creek, a 34.8 mile intermittent creek that runs through mostly rural farmland in central Comal County before connecting to the Comal River in New Braunfels.

When heavy rain falls across the region, the Dry Comal Creek acts as a funnel, collecting storm water runoff and carrying debris and sediment directly into the Comal River. Because of this, rain in San Antonio and the surrounding region can affect the Comal River in New Braunfels more than local rainfall does. A storm system tracking through Bexar County can send a surge of runoff down the Dry Comal Creek hours later.

For more information on the Dry Comal Creek watershed visit the GBRA Basin Summary and the City of New Braunfels River Recreation page.

Where Does the Flood Water Come From?

Unlike the Guadalupe River which is regulated by water releases from Canyon Lake Dam, the Comal River has no such control mechanism. Flood water on the Comal comes all at once from heavy rain and storm water runoff and then fades away within a couple of days.

The Comal Springs that feed the river year round actually lag behind the rain by several days. Ground water takes time to percolate down through the soil and reach the Edwards Aquifer before bubbling back up through the springs. Because of this it is common to see the flow rate of the Comal River bounce around significantly in the days following a strong rain event. The runoff arrives first, followed later by the spring response.

You can monitor the Comal River flow rate in real time using the USGS stream gauge at New Braunfels. The Edwards Aquifer Authority also tracks spring and aquifer levels that directly affect the Comal River.

How Long Does It Take to Get Back to Normal?

Typically two to three days. The storm water runoff dissipates quickly and the fresh spring water from the Comal Springs overtakes any lingering sediment. The Comal River is relatively short compared to other Texas rivers and its banks have minimal development, which limits structural damage after weather events.

What usually delays reopening after a storm is not water quality but safety infrastructure. Damage to railings at the Tube Chute, debris at the last public exit stairs, or downed trees and brush washed down from the Dry Comal Creek all require inspection and clearing before tubing can safely resume. Our staff works closely with the City of New Braunfels to ensure the river is safe before reopening.

The Hidden Dangers of Murky Water

One of the most important things to understand about the Comal River after rain is that you generally will not see the debris — and that is exactly what makes murky water dangerous. Branches, rocks, and other debris washed down from the Dry Comal Creek can lie hidden beneath the surface, creating serious hazards for swimmers and tubers who cannot see them coming.

This is why Landa River Trips takes weather closures seriously and why we encourage all customers to check current conditions before making the drive to New Braunfels. When the water is murky the risks are real even if the surface looks calm.

When Does Landa River Trips Close?

River operations on the Comal River are ultimately determined by the City of New Braunfels. We stay in direct contact with the City watershed manager and follow their guidance on all river closures. The City of New Braunfels manages official river operations and closure information.

Landa River Trips may close or temporarily suspend operations under the following conditions:

• Lightning — we implement a temporary closure of 30 minutes to one hour when lightning is detected in the area
• Flash flood risk — if local weather radar indicates a concern for flash flooding we will close out of an abundance of caution
• City closure — if the City of New Braunfels closes the Comal River we close immediately

Weather and Comal River Tubing — How Rain Affects the Float

Before making the drive to New Braunfels we recommend checking current river conditions using these resources:

• Landa River Trips Blog — check for our latest conditions updates
• City of New Braunfels River Recreation — official rules and river updates
• City of New Braunfels River Operations — official closure information
• USGS Comal River Stream Gauge — real time flow data
• National Weather Service San Antonio — local weather forecasts and flash flood warnings
• Edwards Aquifer Authority — spring and aquifer levels
• Call our booth at (830) 625-5889 or main office at (830) 625-1211
• check our Facebook page for updates.

About Landa River Trips

Landa River Trips has been New Braunfels’ original Comal River tubing company since 1986. After 40 years on the river we know this stretch of water better than anyone. We monitor conditions daily during tubing season and keep our customers informed so they can plan the best possible trip. We monitor weather and Comal River tubing conditions in New Braunfels daily during tubing season.

Open daily at 9AM. Last river entry 4PM. Last shuttle 8PM.
565 N Market St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130
Booth: (830) 625-5889
Main Office: (830) 625-1211