Can you swim here today?
Woodward Branch
West Virginia · River
Use caution — an official advisory is in effect
Use cautionAs of August 22, 2026, USGS gauge 03198000, 1.6 miles away, reports a streamflow of 11,200 ft³/s near Woodward Branch but no water-temperature reading.
Use caution — an official advisory is in effect: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.
- Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. — USGS gauge 03198000, as of Aug 22, 6:00 PM gauge-local time
- A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for Boyd, KY; Carter, KY; Greenup, KY; Lawrence, KY; Boone, WV; Braxton, WV; Cabell, WV; Clay, WV and other areas. — NWS Charleston WV
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 4,240 ft³/s over 85 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 6:00 PM gauge-local time
- Heavy rain today can raise bacteria levels near outfalls and river mouths.
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 4,240 ft³/s over 85 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for West Virginia yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge KANAWHA RIVER AT CHARLESTON, WV (1.6 mi away), as of Aug 22, 6:00 PM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.