In Texas, Lake O’ The Pines is often referred to as the deadliest lake in the state. Located in the east Texas Piney Woods, Lake O’ The Pines is a large lake with a surface area of 18,000 acres. The lake is known for its strong currents, deep waters and treacherous winds, making it a dangerous spot for swimming and boating.
Over the years, Lake O’ The Pines has been the site of numerous drownings and boating accidents. In 2019 alone, six people lost their lives in accidents on the lake. Those numbers are far higher than what is typically seen in other Texas lakes, which makes Lake O’ The Pines the most dangerous body of water in the state.
The main reason for the high number of accidents on Lake O’ The Pines is its strong currents. The lake is fed by several rivers, including the Sulphur River and the Big Cypress River, and the current created by these rivers can be quite powerful. In some areas, it can reach speeds of up to 8 miles per hour. This can create powerful waves and undertows, which can easily drag unsuspecting swimmers and boaters underwater.
In addition to the strong currents, the lake is also known for its deep waters. The average depth of Lake O’ The Pines is around 20 feet, with some areas reaching depths of up to 80 feet. This makes it dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, as they can easily become disoriented and lose their bearings in the deep waters.
Finally, the lake is known for its treacherous winds. During the summer months, strong gusts of wind can whip up large waves on the lake, making it hazardous for boats. These winds can also create dangerous conditions for swimmers, as they can easily become caught in the current and swept away.
For these reasons, Lake O’ The Pines is widely considered to be the deadliest lake in Texas. With its strong currents, deep waters, and treacherous winds, it is no surprise that the lake has seen so many deaths over the years. If you are planning on visiting Lake O’ The Pines, it is important to take extra caution when swimming or boating, and always wear a life jacket.
