Can you swim here today?
Fortney Branch
Virginia · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of October 29, 2026, the water temperature at Fortney Branch is 59°F (15°C), measured by USGS gauge 02011800, 1.4 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 59°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 59°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 02011800, as of Oct 29, 4:30 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 29 (median 193 ft³/s over 47 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 29, 4:30 AM gauge-local time
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 29 (median 193 ft³/s over 47 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Virginia yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge JACKSON RIVER BL GATHRIGHT DAM NR HOT SPGS, VA (1.4 mi away), as of Oct 29, 4:30 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.