Can you swim here today?
Saint Paul Branch
South Carolina · River
Use caution — an official advisory is in effect
Use cautionAs of August 21, 2026, the water temperature at Saint Paul Branch is 90°F (32°C), measured by USGS gauge 02110701, 2.2 miles away.
Use caution — an official advisory is in effect: a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for Bladen, NC; Brunswick, NC; Columbus, NC; New Hanover, NC; Pender, NC; Robeson, NC; Darlington, SC and other areas.
- A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for Bladen, NC; Brunswick, NC; Columbus, NC; New Hanover, NC; Pender, NC; Robeson, NC; Darlington, SC and other areas. — NWS Wilmington NC
- A Heat Advisory is in effect for Columbus; Inland Pender; Coastal Pender; Inland New Hanover; Coastal New Hanover; Inland Brunswick and other areas. — NWS Wilmington NC
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 21 (median 17 ft³/s over 18 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 21, 4:00 PM gauge-local time
- Water temperature is 90°F, warm enough that sun and heat are the main concerns. — USGS gauge 02110701, as of Aug 21, 4:00 PM gauge-local time
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 21 (median 17 ft³/s over 18 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for South Carolina yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge CRABTREE SWAMP AT CONWAY, SC (2.2 mi away), as of Aug 21, 4:00 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.