Can you swim here today?
Bear Creek
North Carolina · River
Not today — an official hazard warning is active
Avoid todayAs of August 23, 2026, USGS gauge 02112250, 9.6 miles away, reports a streamflow of 711 ft³/s near Bear Creek but no water-temperature reading.
Not today — an official hazard warning is active: a Flash Flood Warning is in effect for Stokes, NC; Surry, NC.
- A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for Stokes, NC; Surry, NC. — NWS Blacksburg VA
- Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. — USGS gauge 02112250, as of Aug 23, 12:00 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 785 ft³/s over 62 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 23, 12:00 AM gauge-local time
- Heavy rain today can raise bacteria levels near outfalls and river mouths.
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 785 ft³/s over 62 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for North Carolina yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge YADKIN RIVER AT ELKIN, NC (9.6 mi away), as of Aug 23, 12:00 AM 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.