Can you swim here today?
Bethel Branch
Alabama · River
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date
Use cautionAs of August 23, 2026, USGS gauge 03591800, 7.3 miles away, reports a streamflow of 194 ft³/s near Bethel Branch but no water-temperature reading.
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.
- Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. — USGS gauge 03591800, as of Aug 23, 2:45 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 23 (median 33 ft³/s over 24 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 23, 2:45 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 23 (median 33 ft³/s over 24 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Alabama yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge BEAR CREEK NEAR HACKLEBURG AL (7.3 mi away), as of Aug 23, 2:45 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.