The Falls in Wichita Falls are a well-loved landmark, but many residents and visitors have noticed that they don’t always flow. While they’ve become an iconic part of the city, they weren’t always there—the original falls washed away in a flood in the 1800s.
Thanks to a 1980s campaign called “Let’s Put The Falls Back In Wichita Falls”, the city built a man-made waterfall that now welcomes travelers along I-44. But, if you ever find yourself wondering why The Falls aren’t running, you’re not alone. City officials say there are three main reasons why the water may not be flowing.
1. Pump Issues
The Falls rely on a large pump to push water over the waterfall. This pump moves 3,600 gallons of water per minute, and due to its age, it often requires maintenance and repairs.
- The pump is old and experiences breakdowns.
- If it needs repairs, The Falls must be shut off.
- Once fixed, the city turns them back on as soon as possible.
2. Low Water Levels in the Wichita River
The Falls are fed by the Wichita River, which returns the water back into the river after flowing over the falls. However, when water levels are too low, the intake pump cannot draw in enough water.
- Droughts and dry conditions often cause this issue.
- If the river drops too low, the waterfall shuts down.
- This is more common during hot summer months or extended droughts.
3. Too Much Water from Heavy Rain or Flooding
Ironically, too much water can also cause problems. During heavy rains or flash floods, excess dirt and debris can enter the intake pump, clogging it and forcing it offline.
- Flooding can dump large amounts of dirt into the system.
- When this happens, the city must clean and reset the pump.
- Quick flooding events are more likely to cause shutdowns.
The Falls Are Here to Stay
Despite these occasional issues, city officials work hard to keep The Falls running because they are a symbol of Wichita Falls. Whether they are flowing or temporarily off, the landmark remains an important part of the city’s identity.
- The Falls will always be restored after maintenance or weather-related issues.
- City workers prioritize repairs to keep them running as much as possible.
So, next time you drive past and see The Falls turned off, you’ll know why it happens and that they’ll be back soon!