Tracking rainfall at Westcave through one of the preserve’s longest-running records.

Westcave has recorded rainfall data since 1970, creating the site’s longest-running dataset. Over these 55 years, the average annual rainfall is 34.25 inches. The wettest year on record is 1991 at 56.9 inches, while the driest year is 1974 at just 8 inches.

This remarkable record captures the natural ups and downs of Central Texas weather — and over time, the long-term trend suggests a gradual decline in annual precipitation. By continuing to document rainfall with care and consistency, we gain valuable insight into how our environment is changing.

Our standard rain gauge is checked daily.

Staff and volunteers measure the collected rainfall, record the amount in our logbook, and note the date. These careful observations, made rain or shine for more than five decades, form the foundation of Westcave’s longest-running environmental record.

It’s simple work that adds up.

Rain Calculations Since 2000

Historical rainfall calculations and annual totals

Excel File · Updated annually