Can you swim here today?
Elk River
West Virginia · River
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date
Use cautionAs of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Elk River is 68°F (20°C), measured by USGS gauge 03194700, 11.2 miles away.
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: water temperature is 68°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.
- Water temperature is 68°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — USGS gauge 03194700, as of Aug 22, 7:45 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 141 ft³/s over 64 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 7:45 AM gauge-local time
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 141 ft³/s over 64 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for West Virginia yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge ELK RIVER BELOW WEBSTER SPRINGS, WV (11.2 mi away), as of Aug 22, 7:45 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.