Can you swim here today?
Laurel Branch
North Carolina · River
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date
Use cautionAs of August 23, 2026, the water temperature at Laurel Branch is 65°F (18°C), measured by USGS gauge 03460000, 2.2 miles away.
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: water temperature is 65°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.
- Water temperature is 65°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — USGS gauge 03460000, as of Aug 23, 7:30 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 23 (median 49 ft³/s over 82 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 23, 7:30 PM gauge-local time
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 23 (median 49 ft³/s over 82 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for North Carolina yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge CATALOOCHEE CREEK NEAR CATALOOCHEE, NC (2.2 mi away), as of Aug 23, 7:30 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.