Much-needed rain soaks region over weekend

Shackelford County received some much-needed rainfall over the weekend, breaking a dry stretch that had left pastures dusty and tanks low. Rain began falling on Saturday afternoon, picking up in intensity by evening and continuing through the night into early Sunday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, Albany officially recorded 3.80 inches over the weekend. However, reports from ranchers and residents around the county suggest higher totals in some locations, with several measuring between 4.5 and 5 inches in their gauges.

The rain brought a noticeable boost to Hubbard Creek Reservoir. The lake level rose by 1.15 feet, climbing from 44.7 percent full to 48.2 percent full.

Despite the welcomed precipitation, Shackelford County remains classified as D0 (Abnormally Dry) on the U.S. Drought Monitor, indicating that drought conditions persist, though the rain did offer some short-term relief.

The downpour also caused disruption to weekend events. The annual Albany Car Show, originally scheduled for Saturday, was postponed due to the wet conditions and has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 10.

Meanwhile, the Fort Griffin Fandangle Association moved forward with its Membership Sampler event Saturday evening at Collins Creek Ranch. While storm clouds loomed, the cast managed to complete most of the program before weather forced an early wrap. The performance ended with the group singing “Prairie Land” as rain began to fall.

Forecasts call for more rain in the coming days, with continued chances through the weekend and into next week.