Five people were rescued from the Colorado River on Sunday after reportedly experiencing distress in a strong current, according to Austin-Travis County EMS.
A kayaker and multiple people on a paddleboard were rescued around 90-98 Montopolis Drive, which is near the Montopolis Bridge on the Colorado River. ATCEMS said Sunday evening that medics were evaluating the victims for medical needs.
Final Water Rescue 90-98 Montopolis Drive. 5 victims removed from the water by an AFD rescue Boat. @atcemsmedics evaluating for any medical needs. https://t.co/R7jWxUDxpG
— ATCEMS (@ATCEMS) July 27, 2026
The water rescue took place a day after the city of Austin extended its waterway activity ban for Lady Bird Lake and the Colorado River downstream of Longhorn Dam. Personal and commercial boats, wet bikes, motorized surfboards, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are not allowed in those areas.
The ban continues until Monday at 5 p.m., but the city said it could be extended again if floodgates remain open at Tom Miller Dam. Floodgates at the dam closed Monday morning, according to the Lower Colorado River Authority.
“The higher, faster water flows resulting from dam operations can create hazardous conditions on the waterways for boaters,” the city said in a press release. “Boaters may have trouble paddling against the current to get back to their original destination or to stay away from dangerous areas near the dams.”
The city noted that visibility under the water may be limited, debris may lead to unpredictable currents and bacteria may be elevated. It’s also encouraging people to continue to avoid riverfront trails.
This is the third time the city has extended its waterway ban since severe flooding hit large parts of Texas earlier this month. The city’s ban had previously covered Lake Austin as well, but that portion of the ban expired Saturday evening.