Can you swim here today?
James River Fishing Pier
Newport News, Virginia · Fishing pier
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at James River Fishing Pier is 59°F (15°C), measured by USGS gauge 0167889257, 3.5 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 0167889257, as of Oct 20, 6:15 AM gauge-local time
- A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for Rappahannock River from Urbanna to Windmill Point; York River; James River from Jamestown to the James River Bridge. — NWS Wakefield VA
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 20 (median 0 ft³/s over 11 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 20, 6:15 AM gauge-local time
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 20 (median 0 ft³/s over 11 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Virginia yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge STORM DRAIN WEST OF GARRETT DRIVE AT HAMPTON, VA (3.5 mi away), as of Oct 20, 6:15 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.